Magic in Theory: An Introduction to the Theoretical and Psychological Elements of Conjuring

by Richard Wiseman, Peter Lamont, TurtleMe, et al.

A useful manual for any magician or curious spectator who wonders why the tricks seem so real, this guide examines the psychological aspects of a magician's work. Exploring the ways in which human psychology plays into the methods of conjuring rather than focusing on the individual tricks alone, this explanation of the general principles of magic includes chapters on the use of misdirection, sleight of hand, and reconstruction, provides a better understanding of this ancient art, and offers a section on psychics that warns of their deceptive magic skills.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1902806506
• ISBN13: 9781902806501
• Release Date: October 2005
• Publisher: University of Hertfordshire Press
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 5.9" x 8.8"

Customer Reviews

Good basic intro

This is a good basic introduction for the new magician. I wish I had found something like this 40 years ago! While it may seem a bit basic for the experienced performer, the re-aquaintance with the basics and the concise format make it a good, thought-provoking read. And a good addition to the basic library, magician or not!

Exceptional book

This exceptional book studies the theoretical and above all psychological elements of conjuring, in an analytical way, expecially considering the Misdirection and the Reconstruction. It is very very interesting and you can learn much from it. I am a magician so I know what I say.

Sister's gift

I bought this for my brother and he loved it. I can't review it.

Magic in Theory - Review by Clark May

I recently purchased Magic in Theory which is a college level text on the theoretical and psychological elements of performing as a Magician. For an intermediate or advanced level Magician, this book tends to be quite helpful and causes one to think toward making the performance of Magic more believable and more entertaining for the audience. The paperback version of the book is quite reasonable priced but,unfortunately, the hardbound version is somewhat overpriced.