Williamson’s Wonders, Richard Kaufman-- used

1989. In very good condition.

The staggering amount of strong material in this thin but dense volume makes it a perennial favorite on EVERYONE’s list. Ask ANYBODY for his or her favorite magic books, and this one will be near the top.

Why? Because Williamson has a rare gift for plot innovations. Take the Card to Pocket plot. His “Fifty-one Cards to Pocket” is a modern twist, in which you cause every card EXCEPT a selected one to jump into your pocket. It’s simple yet ingenious.

And while you probably already know David’s Striking Vanish (it is described here in great detail), you may be less familiar with the various applications included. Lots of great ideas.

His Cups and Balls (using only two cups) is hilarious and deceptive.

David’s “Three Card Trick” is also a modern classic, and a fine effect where magic happens DESPITE your best efforts.

If you don’t own this book, you really should. It’s a quick read, and not everything is easy, but it’s a book full of commercial magic that the top professionals in our field use to make a living.