Conjuring

A comprehensive (320-page) historical, biographical treatment of conjuring and conjurors.

Conjuring - more commonly known as magic - is said to be the world's second oldest profession. Thus sumptuously illustrated history tells the story of magic and its bizarre history through portraits of the conjurors themselves. Included are chapters on Horace Goldin and His Buzz-Saw, "Kellar, the Man Who Spoke with Devils," and - yes - "Thurston, the King of Cards," The dark side of magic is explored in chapters on the fabulous Indian Rope Trick and the deadly Defying the Bullets Trick.  The rich history of conjuring is complete with unforgettable sections on the Bambergs, both Blackstones, Houdini and his entourage - perhaps the greatest conjuring act of all - not to mention lively pick-pockets, street entertainers, and the newly emerging women magicians.

This book is the life's work of a famed magician, investigator of "psychics" and "faith healers," and esteemed author. It is also grand entertainment, given an amusing edge by James Rand's notoriou skeptical attitude. Indeed, Randi comes to the ironic conclusion that magic itself is nonexistent - if defined as the ability to defy human powers. What does exist is a dazzling collection of artists whose sleight-of-hand abilities and showmanship make this book an awe-inspiring pageant.