by greedoniz » Jul 26th, '07, 10:43
What They Say
Within this beautifully produced volume you'll find all of the Larry Jennings classics, expertly described and meticulously illustrated. Open Travellers, The Homing Card, Peripatetic Coins, The Visitor, Visual Copper and Silver and so much more. 80 groundbreaking effects in all, ready to find a home in your repertoire.
"An absolute must for all lovers of the poetry of magic." - Dai Vernon
Cost
£23.99 from MagicBox
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)
Most of these I would say are intermediate to difficult 3 to 5. I've not read every effect but I've found no self workers yet
Review
I decided to get this as a certain effect ' Homing Card' was mentioned in Darwin Ortiz 'Strong Magic' book and it seemed to be something that would suit my performance style right down to the ground. so I looked more into Larry Jennings and the more I learnt, the more I was keen to get the book.
Firstly when I received the book I was struck by the quality of the item itself, beautifully printed, set out and bound. It starts with several introductions written by Dai Vernon, Mike Maxwell and Larry Jennings himself.
Then comes the index which, of course, has the names of the effects, the page numbers and a very handy addition of the sleights used in each effect printed under the title.
To the effects themselves, there are roughly 264 pages containing a mixture of card and coins with the added bonus of Larry Jennings 'Single Cup & Balls Routine' at the end. Not only are the mechanics of the tricks explained but with suggested patter and most importantly the smalll nuances such as pacing and use of misdirection.
Overall each effect is vividly described and the illustrations clear.
Each effect I have read so far are wonderfully thought out, have obviously been audience tested and would be a great routine to add to any magicians arsenal.
The only problem I have encountered so far is that I have come across one or two effects that require lapping which isn't practical for most of the real work I do but it is still a handy thing to know when the situation arises.
Lastly I think I ned to comment of the price as it really is a bargain. For £23 delivered you get a really well made hardbound book full of great routines, original sleights by Larry Jennings and some fantastic advice about performance and practicing in the intros.
For anyone looking for some well thought out card and coin magic (mostly card) then look no further than this book. To be honest I am surprised that this isn't often citied as a must get classic but am happy it isn't as this means less people will be performing the effects I am currently trying to learn.
If Dai Vernon himself rated Larry Jennings as one of the best magicians he ever saw and writes a glowing review in the book of the material within then you know you are in for a bit of a treat.
Overall
I always said I wouldn't give anything a 10 but for the quality of book and the effects contained within all for that price it has to be a 10.
Dont buy it though as I want it all to myself.