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The Magic Cafe Forum Index » » New to magic? » » Beginner books (0 Likes) Printer Friendly Version

kent
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New user
Victoria,BC
44 Posts

Profile of kent
I just wanted to mention a possibly overlooked source of information for beginners (like myself).

I've seen posts from people wondering what are the best books to buy, and where they should buy them from (online? local magic shop?) ... now this may sound obvious, but check around your town's used book stores.

Undoubtedly someone in your area has started learning magic, and then become "dis-illusioned" Smile, or a practicing magician has outgrown some of his books. These may well wind up at the used book store, for cheap!
... and the magic still works!!

Recently checking the shops in my town (of which there are many), I was able to find (and buy) several Bob Longe books, Hay's Amateur Magician's Handbook, John Scarne's "Tricks", Hugard's "Encyclopedia Of Card Tricks" and a stack of old Genii magazines from the 60s - all for about $60. And there's lots more out there.

Again, sorry if this is obvious. I just think some beginners may think the only way to get information is by buying the latest $40 video, or pricey hardcover book from a dealer.

Ok, rambling first post over!

-kent
zeroG
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Regular user
183 Posts

Profile of zeroG
Hey Kent,
Welcome to the Magic Cafe. I started my library at my local used book store too.
Dr. TORA
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Inner circle
TURKEY
1439 Posts

Profile of Dr. TORA
Second hand bookstores are in fact gold mines. However in Turkey these mines do not have-or rarely have- magic books. Once somebody buys it, they do not sell. If you are lucky enough to have a Used bookstore around having magic books, do not pass by, do check them. There may be sometimes out of print ones which may be the gem of your library. Used Books Rules !!!
Smile Smile Smile Smile
Magically Yours,

OZLEN TUNCER /Dr.TORA

Have you visited my new Website in English, yet?

www.magictora.com or www.torasmagic.com
Apprentice
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Regular user
164 Posts

Profile of Apprentice
Great Tip!

I just passed by a used book store today and found 'Card College Vol. #1' for 26 $CDN!! Great book for the beginner.
Russ
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Regular user
Muskogee, Oklahoma
124 Posts

Profile of Russ
I like to check eBays Magic Book section. Once I find something of interest I do a little research and decide how much I am willing to pay. Don't get caught in a bidding war. I have seen stuff go for more than retail price.
I have been lucky to find 7 vol. of Tarbell for less than $50.00. You have to be patient because it doesn't happen everyday.

Russ
"All I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindergarten" by Robert Fulghum
Drew from Spotlight
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Regular user
NJ
126 Posts

Profile of Drew from Spotlight
Quote:
I just wanted to mention a possibly overlooked source of information for beginners (like myself).


I've seen posts from people wondering what are the best books to buy, and where they should buy them from (online? local magic shop?) ... now this may sound obvious, but check around your town's used book stores.

Another overlooked source of information is your Public Library… and it’s free!
DavidKenney
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Inner circle
2178 Posts

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....don't forget the good old library.
Dennis Michael
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Inner circle
Southern, NJ
5821 Posts

Profile of Dennis Michael
Magic Clubs have auctions and fairs, prices are really great. I just got the complete Moritmer set and about 7 other good books for $20 at the Kidabra Convention Also, $20 for the Comedy Workshop 12 auto tapes.

Just let the word out you're looking for some books and you may be surprised at the response. I let the word out I was looking for illusions, and I got some really good deals.
Dennis Michael
James Owen
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New user
41 Posts

Profile of James Owen
Alright m8 how are you doing? Fine I hope. Am new to magic myself and the first book I bought was 'The Royal Road To Card Magic'. It has everything you need to know about cards, and is very well detailed.

Another good book I bought as well was Mark Wilsons Course in Magic. It covers everything you need to know! Such as cards, coins, handkerchief, impromptu, mental, betchas, spongesup and ball tricks, as well as make at home magic, and Magical Illusions. This is the perfect book for a beginner. Take care and happy magic!
Steve
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New user
Belgium
89 Posts

Profile of Steve
For the past 10 years I've been collecting magic books, all of them come from second hand bookstores.
I have visited many, and I have found absolute gems !
I even got the complete Tarbell course for 75$.
I now have about 70 books in my collection, so second hand bookstores are definetly worth checking out.

However, don't get dissapointed if you don't find any magic books, I find maybe 7 books in a year. You might need to check out 20 stores before you find one, but when you do ... the feeling is great.
The oldes one I found dates back to 1903.

Even something as silly as the 'Disney Magic Book' that was published for their 50th anniversary in 1972 is in my collection, in absolute mint condition.

Steve
Smile
tla
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New user
Texas
65 Posts

Profile of tla
Kent,
Check out H&R Magic Books online at http://www.magicbookshop.com/. They have hundreds of used magic books at reasonable prices.
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