Knowing Where We've Been

One of the most important things any serious student of magic can do is study the history of the art. Like the old saying goes, you have to know where you've been in order to know where you're going.

With that in mind, FUN has always maintained a healthy number of books on magic history. We've gotten a few of them in recently, so I thought it might be good to highlight them.

Around the World with a Magician and a Juggler by H.J. Burlingame: this seminal text by H.J. Burlingame includes biographies of two important magicians, Baron Hartwig Seeman and William D’Alvini (who toured with Alexander Herrmann, as well as his own show). Information on Ernest Patrizio and Bellachini (including Bellachini’s presentation and method for the Eggs from Mouth effect, which he is said to have originated) rounds out the volume. Also included is Max Dessoir’s essay on the “Psychology of the Art of Conjuring,” making this book a delight for students of the art as well as collectors.

Hugard's Annuals, 1937-1939: This is really a wonderful book with some clever and forgotten secrets of magic. Jean Hugard, co-author of Royal Road to Card Magic, published his magazine, The Magic Annual, from 1937-1939. Now the entire run is available to own in hardcover!

Edd Patterson: A Lifetime of Magic and Art: This book describes the story of Edd Patterson, The Magic Artist. During his career his programs were endorsed by literally thousands of school administrators and parent teacher groups in the eastern United States. Now retired, this book brings Edd Patterson alive to a new generation. Apart from his life story, there are included some 33 time-tested routines for children's shows along with ieas and thoughts from his life as a master school show performer. Included is a bonus DVD with footage of Edd Patterson on stage.