Hi,

I got Card College 5 and I'd like to say I think it's better than the other 4 volumes.

The reason being is that the effects are more suited to my taste (cards disappearing, changing, even some good gambling routines) as well as a whole chapter dedicated to humour and tidbits with practical examples... some good stuff.

A worthy purchase!

I would not say that Vol. 5 is better than the other 4 volumes, but you rightfully point out that this is a matter of taste (or style, aesthetic goals, etc.)

Regardless, I too think CC5 is great!

I have read CC1&2, should I get the CC5 without the 3&4?
I read Michael Close's review, it seems incredibly good.

Michael Lam

I liked the selection of material in CC5. A few of my favorites: Thompson Aces, Stop, and Burn Aces. I've spent the last couple weeks just pouring over this book.

Overall, I rate the material a little higher than the other Card College volumes (though I rank the material in those higher than 98% of what is on the market). This may be a matter of personal taste: I like gambling and mentalism tricks, which you'll find in CC5.

On the other hand, I don't much go for tricks that require extensive setups and there are some of those in CC5. I also don't usually keep Jokers in my deck and there is a whole section of tricks with Jokers.

I was interested to read that Card Sheister liked CC5 because of "cards disappearing, changing..." Another reviewer on another thread gave a thumbs down because he didn't think there was enough flash. Mmmmm.....

So CC5 is a little different than 1-4; isn't that the way it should be?

p.s. For CC6 I'd like to see another section of flourishes, more false counts and tricks using them, and a section on handling a memorized deck and memorized deck tricks. Also, a section on routining a series of card tricks and performing in different circumstances (at a table, standup, etc.).

Jim, thanks for the recommanding the tricks, and thanks for the PM as well! ^_^"

I have not yet finished reading CC1&2, a shame on me. I have a lot of books which haven't been read, and still looking for more books.

But I will get this CC5 soon.

Magically Yours,
Michael Lam

hello
i think all 4 are awsome but im going to buy number 4 when my local magic shop gets it in.

The entire series is an incredible undertaking and a total bonus for the magic community. In the first four volumes are effects as you go. And they are gems. From the very first volume. Five, is a great compendium of additional classics that are of Giobbi's personal favorites from what I can tell (and with his personal handling's of them which might offend purists, but in this man's opinion is of little matter since Giobbi has proven himself time and time again to be a great teacher whose personal touches added to classic effects are subtle improvements and not ***izations that you so often find in magical literature - hence why SO MANY books out of the milions that have been published are not discussed on these forums.) Enjoy.