by Al Doty » Dec 30th, '07, 10:36
[quote="Sexton Blake"]
2) Scarne, as has been said, has removed all the sleights. Good on him, but you can put them back in - to your own ideal level. For example, a particular trick requires a card be removed from the top of the deck (unnoticed); Scarne gives a method of achieving this but, for me, simply using a sleight to do it is more comfortable. I'd really recommend the book for complete beginners because I this. I remember the bleak sorrow of knowing how to *do* a trick, but not being able to perform it because it required a move two-years ahead of my ability. Here, you can do the trick right away, then - as your ability improves - bring the sleights online and (often) make it even better*. The trick will grow with you.
Excellent comment and observation. This is a good book to have for beginners and for reference for us oldtimers. Just because it is over 50 years old doesn't mean its not up to date or unimportant. It will make you think and create. I enjoy this book and as you said, it really doesn't cost that much and you will find it is a bargin.
Best
Al