Publishers Weekly (Fri Oct 06 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

Noting in the introduction that he prefers magic built around everyday objects, magician Banfield demonstrates more than 50 tricks that use playing cards, coins, rubber bands, wine corks, cell phones, and other readily available items. Photos show Banfield performing each trick, as well as a number of versatile sleight-of-hand techniques that include the -French drop,- -fake take,- and -false transfer- (all three are methods of making a coin disappear). Throughout, Banfield emphasizes the importance of practice, presentation (-Juggling is a great skill and it-s a good way to fill awkward gaps in your show-), and a well-trained memory. Readers who are serious about learning magic will enjoy getting the inside scoop on its subtleties while gaining experience with the technical aspects of the craft. Ages 7-11. (July)

Kirkus Reviews

A sunny array of card, coin, and doodad magic tricks presented in step-by-step format.Much of the pleasure of Banfield's show-and-tell guide to trickery is the sheer joy he brings to the project: "The truth is I get such a rush from the moment I absolutely astound someone with a cool trick." To introduce each of the four broad categories the 52 tricks are divided among, the young white man offers some basic tools of each of the trades. Within those categories, each move for each trick is shown in numbered sequence and is easy enough to follow with the eye, but it is best to remember Banfield's words at the beginning of the book. Rule No. 1 is never reveal the secret to a trick: that would take the magic out of it. Rule No. 2: "understand, practice, and master each trick before you perform it." And rule No. 3 is to enjoy the thrill you give. Tips complement each trick, but they are not shortcuts. They might aid in showing how to add grace to a move or how to distract an audience for that critical, magical second. Banfield has also got a sense of humor: for the "Mind-Reading Code" trick, "you will need: a good memory and an accomplice." Lastly, Banfield has a magic smile. It is exactly the same in over 60 photographs. Pretty amazing. Tricks sure to disarm even someone with a bad case of the grumps. (Nonfiction. 8-16)

School Library Journal (Sun Oct 01 00:00:00 CDT 2017)

Gr 4-8This beginner's manual on magic tricks uses common place objects. The book is divided into sections on "Card Tricks," "Coin Tricks," "Everyday Objects," and "Mind Reading." Smart sequencing, along with an exhaustive table of contents, makes any trick easy to findeven without an index. Each section starts with a spread that presents the basics of each type of illusion. For example, "Card Tricks" begins with a presentation of the standard "holds" and manual manipulations that make the schemes possible. Each feat is detailed with clear, instructional text and step-by-step photographs that show each technique from multiple angles. Key terms are in bold and defined in a glossary at the end. The pages are colorful and convey a sense of excitement without being busy or unfocused. Before explicating the individual tricks, Banfield discusses the importance of practicing, developing a style and stage presence, and perfecting specific "trios of tricks" in order to hold an audience's attention. VERDICT This introduction to magic with everyday items is highly recommended for middle school library collections and will be relished by those embarking on the journey toward mystifying their friends and family.Kelly Kingrey-Edwards, Blinn Junior College, Brenham, TX