Review: Amazing Magic Tricks by Thomas Canavan

SUMMARY FROM NETGALLEY.COM:

Make coins disappear, bend spoons, and read through sealed envelopes! Anyone can be a magician with the help of this guide, which explains how to perform mystifying sleight-of-hand maneuvers and feats of mental agility with playing cards and common household items. Humorously illustrated, step-by-step directions explain the magic behind dozens of captivating tricks.

MY TAKE:
I've always been fascinated by magic, even though I'm more interested in learning the science behind it than actually being able to perform the tricks.

In Amazing Magic Tricks, readers are shown through step-by-step illustrations how to perform magic tricks. The tricks range from magical escapes and illusions to number tricks. There are also a few joke tricks mixed in.

I appreciated the variety of magic tricks because that means there's something for everyone, even those who aren't as good at sleight-of-hand tricks. My favorite tricks were the number tricks because they were quite easy to do and yet they were still impressive because it's harder to guess how they work. I also thought the "exactly the same number" trick was funny and definitely worth a try, especially if you're a good comedian.

The use of illustrations and step-by-step instructions was perfect because it's easier to follow. The bunny is pretty cute too. However, I think it would be much better if there were also explanations included which detailed the principles behind how the trick works. Of course, with some of the tricks, it's pretty obvious, but some of the tricks use science and mathematical concepts, and it would be cool to see the science behind the magic.

Thanks to NetGalley and Dover Publications for the e-ARC.

THE GOOD:

1. The illustrations and step-by-step instructions are easy to follow.
2. There are many kinds of tricks included.
3. Some of the tricks can be done right away, even if you're a beginner. 

THE BAD:

1. It would be better if there were explanations detailing the science behind some of the tricks included. 

FAVORITE QUOTE/S:

Magicians call quick tricks "throwaway gags."

READ IT IF:

1. You want to learn magic tricks.
2. It's easier for you to follow step-by-step instructions with illustrations than if the instructions were in paragraph form.
3. You like number tricks. 

RATING:


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