The Effect
The Alchemical Tools is not so much an effect as it is a handbook for magicians and mentalists alike. It not only provides tricks (listed below) but gives advice as to how you can turn your magic into miracles.
Effects Included:
At The Doors of Deception. A card is chosen from a deck never touched by the mentalist and shuffled back in by the spectator. Then the mentalist removes one card...their chosen one.
Deuterium. (potentially) Think of a card...The mentalist names it.
Insightful Sequence. The mentalist predicts the sequence numbered business cards will end up in after being mixed by a spectator.
Killer Hertz. Spectators choose ESP cards and leave one for the mentalist, who then not only tells them which card they chose (and why) but proves that he knew which card would be left for him.
Also included are Paul's tips on C**D R*****G (didn't know whether you class this as exposure)
Cost
£38 direct from
Paul's website
Difficulty
(1=easy to do, 2=No sleights, but not so easy, 3=Some sleights used,
4=Advanced sleights used, 5=Suitable for experienced magicians only)
I would say 2-5, as the effects in this book are relatively easy (because they are so streamlined). However, the thoughts in the rest of the book will take some practise.
Review
The book opens with a cautionary tale of one of Paul's apprentices, which shows that, even though you may be achieving claps and cheers, your magic can do more.
The next few chapters explain in detail the psycology which can be worked into your performances (and indeed everyday life) to build better connections with people. The results are staggering, with the ultimate goal being having the opportunity to see that little spark of magic in the spectator's eye.
Paul gives his advice on personas, language used, body language, etc. It is so meticulous, it really opens your eyes to the arsenal of tools you have at your disposal, but have yet to try out.
Each section ends with a summary, so you remember all the stuff you just read through. (Don't worry; you will want to re-read it anyway)
The effects are clearly explained (as usual) with a special section for subtleties. I had never tried c**d r*****g seriously, but after reading this book, I have started to try it out, with great results.
The book ends with essays and thoughts from the author himself.
When reading this book, it is as if Paul is there speaking to you one-on-one, explaining the thinking and reasoning behind everything. He reveals more than just secrets, but real tools.
Do not underestimate the power of this book. It may only have a few effects, but once you have read the rest, you will understand why. This is advice from a pro, not only in magic and mentalism, but in psycology as well. THIS GUY KNOWS WHAT HE IS TALKING ABOUT!!!
Overall
Yes, you have to read through 246 pages before reaching an effect, but those of you who buy this book will LOVE all 398 pages of the book.
The title reveals all. This book can (and will) change any base metal performance into a polished nugget of pure gold.
This book is for the professional worker. If you read nothing else this year, read this. You will not regret it. This book is genius.
11/10