I'm a 44-year-old gent, studying magic at the castle. Love the card magic, but need a lot of work on my cardistry -- a shrinking proportion of my shuffles still end with a 52-card pickup -- and am eager to get deeper into mentalism.

Anyone have recommendations of best mentalist books? I'm assuming Practical Modern Mentalism and The Jinx, both of which have been ordered, but other suggestions? Also, any good General History Primers? (I'm *loving* Hiding the Elephant, which I'm halfway thru.)

Oh, re "Tendrecube's doppelgänger" -- same age and also was drawn to magic for my anxiety. I'm sure we look nothing alike. But my anxiety is far too long and deep a topic to dive into here. (Plus, why on earth would my anxiety drive me a desire to perform on the Palace of Prestidigitation's stage? Aish!)

Welcome deanpickles.


I know from experience that picking up cards is good exercise (especially when you do it a lot).

I have a curious interest in card jugglery. It can also be relaxing once you get the hang of it.

Oh yeah, you can also use cards for Magic tricks. (I've heard some people even play games with them.)

-Mary Mowder

Cards and coins will be our lost on here........
Welcome dean