Went to the library and picked up three books. "The Secret Life of Houdini", "Escape! the Story of Houdini" (I understand its a children's bio, but I read it has some nice pics), and "Carter Beats the Devil".

I have started with the "Secret Life" book. Now, whether or not he was a spy doesn't make or break this book for me so far, as I am more interested in the magic/performance aspect. I just love reading about his performances, self promotion techniques, etc. To say his life has me captivated is an understatement. It's hard to put the book down.

Anyone have a fave Houdini book?

Jamie…. I too have enjoyed reading the books that you have listed. I would recommend checking out ‘The Magician and the Cardsharp.” Also any of the old Melbourne Christopher history of magic books and “100 years of Magic Posters.”

Take care,
Bruce

Jim Steinmeyer's Hiding the Elephant, read it.

I enjoy Steinmeyers stuff a lot.
He does have a different position on Houdini than Kalush and Sloman though.
A lot of Vernon worshippers don't like Houdini only because Vernon didn't.
I don't think Houdini was a terrible magician like a lot of other magicians say.
He loved magic and worked hard on it.
Still, Hiding the Elephant is a fantastic read.

I've read some awesome reviews of Steinmeyers books...can't wait to dig into them!

Seems like everyone is offering their favorite book with the exception of a book exclusively on Houdini, which is what you asked for. So I will list 2 very informative Houdini books that I liked,
1 - Houdini, His Life Story by Harold Kellock. Copyright 1928
2 - Houdini's Escapes & Magic by Walter Gibson. Copyright 1930

Much interesting information.
Rennie