The Spellbinding Plot Twists in The Magic Thief

Once upon a time, in a small village nestled in the heart of a dense forest, there lived a young boy named Liam. Liam had always been fascinated by stories of magic and adventure. His favorite tales were those of brave warriors and noble heroes who battled evil sorcerers and mystical creatures. One day, while exploring the woods near his village, Liam stumbled upon a hidden cave. Curiosity got the better of him, and he cautiously entered the dark cavern. To his amazement, he discovered a small, sparkling gem tucked away in a corner.

Pure historical overview of magic goes to David Prices's large thome. It is very well researched and writen.

Black pebbled paper over boards, TA and publisher s logo in gold on spine, white illustrated dj, TA and publisher s logo in black on spine, TA in black and illustration of black top hat and white dove on front panel, black and white reproduction of The Great Lafayette poster on rear panel, buff endpapers. I find the Encyclopedia of Magic and Magicians by TA Waters to be an invaluable reference source although it does contain the occasional inaccuracy or omission.

To his amazement, he discovered a small, sparkling gem tucked away in a corner. As he picked it up, a surge of energy coursed through his body, and he felt a tingling sensation throughout. Unbeknownst to Liam, the gem he had found was called the "Magic Thrie.

The magic thrie

I'll start this forum off by asking what is your favorite magic history book and why? It could be a general history book, a history book which focuses on a specific topic, or it could be a biography.

A good read is "A Life Among Secrets" the Uncommon life and adventures of Eddie Fields by Stephen Minch. Here's a man that did it all and led by all account a very interesting life. I enjoyed it and would recommend it as a decent biography

My top two favorite magic books happen to be autobiographies: "Milo & Roger" by Arthur Brandon and "Illusion Show" by David Bamberg. Two men with wildly disparate backgrounds and of different generations, both books have fascinating stories of development through trial and adversity. Not only about magic, both have a lot to say about the performing arts and self-producing.

I go back to them again and again and again.

As far as general history of magic is concerned, I like Milbourne Christopher's The Illustrated History of Magic, even though some of his statements do not stand up to extremely close scrutiny. It at least gives a perspective of what was going on around the world at various historical times.

Fifty Years in the Magic Circle by Signor Blitz is another book that gives a good read.

I'm not as sanguine about the Robert-Houdin memoirs, because some of the material therein is patently untrue. It's a good publicity book, though.

Founder of CODBAMMC

My Chickasaw name is "Throws Money at Cups."

"Hiding the Elephant: How Magicians Invented the Impossible and Learned to Dissapear" by Jim Steinmeyer is a TERRIFIC book outlining the history of "invisibility". The book itself is fairly new, I don't think it has even been out a full year. This one is a really great read. I had much troubles putting it down.

"Houdini on Magic" (edited by Walter B. Gibson & Morris N. Young is a very intriguing book, because it is basically Houdini talking about all of his various picks and methods for escaping from. well everything! There IS a small section on magic, but it is fairly elemetary stuff, and the book's forte is really about escapism.

Expect the Unexpected

Magic: A Pictoral History of Conjurers in the Theater

I think it is a well writen history. Otherwise, I tend to be fond of Bibliographys. But, I am a book collector.

I guess my favorite initial book was Milbourne Christopher's "Panorama of Magic". True enough it was very superfical and fleeting and even inaccurate in some areas but you never had the opportunity I had to discuss it.

I sat down at my first Columbus Magi-
fest about 1975 with Horace Marshall. I was new to magic and I have always loved history. I mentioned every name I had read in Christopher's book. Horace either had seen them, built for them, or knew about them. Wow what a treat.

There are so many very good books out there now. Anything by Mike Caveny or Jim Steinmeyer are must reads. Both detail nuts and beautiful writers.

Pure historical overview of magic goes to David Prices's large thome. It is very well researched and writen.

Richard E. Hughes, Hughes Magic Inc., 352 N. Prospect St., Ravenna, OH 44266 (330)296-4023
www.hughesmagic.com
[email protected]
Write direct as I will be turning off my PM's.

Thought I’d jump in with a title and some comments.

There are many good books out there, but one author not yet mentioned is Eddie Dawes. His writing is so consistently good, prolific, AND accurate. Plus, I can’t think of another history author who documents his facts with references so well.

“Illusion Show” by David Bamberg has been widely heralded as a great read – and for good reason. Great selection, in my opinion.

Generally, I agree with Bill Palmer’s comments, though I’d add that I believe Blitz’s autobiography has a lot of puff in it as well – perhaps that’s what Bill meant by his “good read” comment. As to Robert-Houdin’s biography, accurate or not, it is a true classic of our literature. Yes, he took literary license, but his chapter on mountebanks, often omitted in the English-language editions, is generally thought to provide excellent insight into their lives.

Jordini’s selection of Houdini on Magic is an interesting choice. What I also like about that book is the Houdini “articles” on the likes of Katterfelto, Jacob Philadelphia, Hofzinser, and George Heubeck. Perhaps some or all of this material first appeared in Houdini’s Conjurer’s Magazine, but I still love reading it.

The Magician’s selection of the Blackstone Book of Magic and Illusion is another interesting choice, though I’ve often wished that Blackstone wrote more about his family history than about general magic history (then again, maybe the history section was really done by Charlie and Regina Reynolds).

BKentner’s choice of the Price book is another good one. Price pulled few punches, and perhaps the only major drawback to his work is that his attitude comes through so clearly sometimes that a reader has to wonder where the history left off and the bias crept in. Lest anybody think I’m trying to knock a dead man, David was always kind to me and I did make this comment to him one day, to which he replied (in typical Price fashion), “well it’s my book, Clay.” Right you were, David.

I envy hugmagic’s chance to sit down and chat with a man like Horace Marshall. What a treat and rare opportunity. By the way, Milbourne Christopher's first history book was a little pamphlet titled “Panorama of Prestidigitators,” 44 pages long and self-published by the author in 1956. It’s pretty hard to find nowadays.

To those of you who have been kind enough to jump in and offer your thoughts, here is a sneak preview of an entry for Dr. Dawes’ The Great Illusionists verbatim from the first instalment of the second edition of Historians’ Guide to Conjuring. It should be going to the printer, and I’m pasting it here in a flush of pride and relief and as a “proud papa.”

I realize that some of you may find the information is more than you care to know, but like bkentner, I’m a book lover. If any of you care to comment on the entry, please feel free, good or bad. I just hope enough people but the book or I’m gonna lose my shirt on this thing!

“[EAD100] — The / Great / Illusionists.
Newton Abbot[, Devon] & London: David & Charles, [1979]. Printed in Newton Abbot by Redwood Burn Limited, Trowbridge and Esher. ISBN 0-7153-7773-6. First U.K. edition, approximately 5,000 copies printed (unstated).
(24.6 x 19.2 cm.) [i-x]11-216 pp. Illustrated, references and notes, index.
Black pebbled paper over boards, TA and publisher’s logo in gold on spine, white illustrated dj, TA and publisher’s logo in black on spine, TA in black and illustration of black top hat and white dove on front panel, black and white reproduction of The Great Lafayette poster on rear panel, buff endpapers. £7.50.

See illustrations EAD100TP, EAD100CVR, EAD100DJ, and index reproduced at pp 55-59. As the blurb aptly states, this book “traces the history of conjuring and illusion through the lives and achievements of the finest practitioners of the art …”. This book was written over an astonishingly short period in 1978. As with The Book of Magic, Dawes was approached by the publisher on extremely short notice to write a book which had already been titled and in fact pre-sold at the Frankfurt Book Fair in 1978. During the Christmas holidays of 1978, the author and his wife spent two intense weeks in their den, the author dictating the text and Mrs. Dawes typing it up. Profusely illustrated and one of the classics of conjuring histories, uniquely reflecting the author’s training as a scientist and science’s relationship to magic through the ages.”

I find the 'Encyclopedia of Magic and Magicians' by TA Waters to be an invaluable reference source (although it does contain the occasional inaccuracy or omission).

I'd love to see it brought up to date with the inclusion of many more photographs and entries.

To those of you who have been kind enough to jump in and offer your thoughts, here is a sneak preview of an entry for Dr. Dawes’ The Great Illusionists verbatim from the first instalment of the second edition of Historians’ Guide to Conjuring. It should be going to the printer, and I’m pasting it here in a flush of pride and relief and as a “proud papa.”

" Legends spoke of its extraordinary powers, capable of granting its possessor any wish their heart desired. It was believed to have been forged by ancient wizards who had harnessed the very essence of magic. With the Magic Thrie in his possession, Liam's life took an unexpected turn. He found himself bestowed with incredible abilities. He could summon gusts of wind at will, control fire with a mere thought, and even communicate with animals. But Liam knew that he must use his newfound powers responsibly and vowed to only use them for the greater good. Word of Liam's extraordinary abilities soon spread throughout the village. People from far and wide came to seek his help, whether it was a desperate plea to find a lost loved one, heal a sick child, or put an end to a tyrannical ruler's reign. Liam selflessly used his powers for the betterment of others, demonstrating his unwavering devotion to justice and the protection of those in need. However, as time passed, Liam realized that possessing such extraordinary powers came with a great responsibility. The Magic Thrie had the potential to corrupt the hearts of its users, twisting their desires into selfish and malevolent wishes. Liam knew he must be mindful and not let the allure of power consume him. One day, a dark sorcerer known as Malor, fueled by envy and greed, heard tales of Liam's powers and desired the Magic Thrie for himself. Malor sought to use the gem to enslave the world and bend it to his will. Sensing the imminent danger, Liam set off on a perilous journey to confront Malor and protect the Magic Thrie from falling into the wrong hands. Their battle was fierce and arduous, with Liam calling upon all his powers to overcome the sorcerer's dark magic. Ultimately, Liam's pure heart and unwavering determination prevailed, and he defeated Malor, banishing him from the land. With peace restored, Liam realized that the Magic Thrie was too dangerous to remain in his possession. He entrusted the gem to a group of wise and powerful wizards who promised to protect it, ensuring that its powers would never be misused or abused. Liam returned to his village, hailed as a hero. Although he no longer possessed the Magic Thrie, he had learned invaluable lessons about himself, the true meaning of power, and the importance of using it wisely. And so, the legend of Liam and the Magic Thrie became etched in the memories of the villagers, serving as a reminder that true magic lies not in extraordinary powers, but in the selfless acts of kindness and bravery..

Reviews for "The Unique Writing Style of The Magic Thief"

1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really excited to read "The Magic Thief" as I had heard so many good things about it. However, I was thoroughly disappointed. The plot was slow and predictable, and the characters felt one-dimensional. I found myself losing interest halfway through the book and had to force myself to finish it. Overall, I wouldn't recommend it to others.

2. Mark - 2 stars - I had high hopes for "The Magic Thief" based on the positive reviews I had seen, but I found it to be quite underwhelming. The story lacked originality and the world-building fell flat. The main character, Conn, was rather annoying and the supporting characters were forgettable. The writing style felt disjointed, making it difficult for me to fully immerse myself in the story. Unfortunately, this book did not live up to the hype for me.

3. Emily - 3 stars - "The Magic Thief" had an interesting premise, but I felt that it wasn't executed well. The pacing of the book was inconsistent, with some parts dragging on while others felt rushed. The magic system lacked depth and explanations, leaving me feeling confused at times. Additionally, I didn't connect with any of the characters on an emotional level, which made it difficult for me to truly care about their fates. While the book had its moments, it ultimately fell short for me.

4. James - 2 stars - I was hoping for an exciting and engaging fantasy read with "The Magic Thief", but unfortunately, it failed to deliver. The plot was slow-moving and lacked a sense of urgency, making it difficult to stay engaged. The characters were unremarkable and their actions often felt illogical. Additionally, the world-building felt incomplete, leaving many unanswered questions. Overall, I was left feeling unsatisfied and wouldn't recommend this book to others.

5. Laura - 1 star - "The Magic Thief" was a big disappointment for me. The story felt disjointed and lacked coherence. The character development was virtually nonexistent, making it difficult to invest emotionally in the story. On top of that, the writing style was bland and lacked any real depth. I struggled to finish this book and ultimately felt like I had wasted my time. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend "The Magic Thief" to anyone looking for a captivating fantasy read.

The Power of Friendship and Trust in The Magic Thief