Art of Astonishment Book 1

Art of Astonishment Book 1 is the first volume in Paul Harris's instructional magic series. The book teaches close-up magic effects and techniques with cards, coins, and everyday objects. The text includes step-by-step instructions for over 30 magic routines, accompanied by illustrations and photographs. Harris breaks down the mechanics, psychology, and theatrical elements of each effect through detailed tutorials. Each chapter focuses on a specific category of magic, from impromptu tricks to more complex routines requiring preparation. The book emphasizes audience management and misdirection techniques alongside the technical instruction. The work explores the intersection of magic as both performance art and psychological craft. Harris's approach centers on creating genuine moments of wonder rather than mere technical demonstrations.

Magic enthusiasts and performers rate this as a top resource for card and close-up magic techniques. Reviews highlight the unique presentational angles and psychological elements that Harris teaches alongside the mechanics. Readers appreciate: - Step-by-step photos and clear instructions - Focus on audience interaction and showmanship - Mix of basic and advanced effects - Harris's writing style and humor Common criticisms: - Some effects require advanced sleight-of-hand skills - Price point ($50-75 used) considered high - A few readers note binding quality issues - Several tricks use specialized/gimmicked props Ratings across platforms: Amazon: 4.7/5 (32 reviews) Goodreads: 4.4/5 (17 reviews) Penguin Magic: 4.8/5 (156 reviews) Notable review quote: "Harris doesn't just teach tricks - he teaches you how to make magic meaningful and memorable for audiences." - MagicCafe forum user The book remains in demand despite being out of print, with used copies selling for above original retail price.

Strong Magic by Darwin Ortiz The text contains psychological insights and theoretical frameworks for constructing strong magical effects through structured routines and misdirection techniques.

Magic and Showmanship by Henning Nelms The book bridges the gap between technical sleight of hand and theatrical performance through practical instruction on staging, timing, and audience management.

Maximum Entertainment by Ken Weber This work presents methods for transforming magic tricks into compelling performances through character development, scripting, and audience connection strategies.

Magic and Meaning by Eugene Burger , Robert E. Neale The text explores the philosophical and symbolic aspects of magic performance while providing frameworks for creating meaningful presentations.

The Books of Wonder by Tommy Wonder The volumes contain detailed explanations of original illusions alongside analysis of the thinking processes behind creating deceptive effects.

🎩 Paul Harris is known as "the most influential mind in magic" and has created effects used by David Copperfield and other leading magicians ✨ The book is part of a trilogy that took Harris 25 years to complete, representing his life's work in magic 🎪 Many of the effects in the book were originally priced at $30-$50 each when sold individually before being compiled into this collection 🔮 The material focuses on what Harris calls "astonishment engineering" - creating moments of genuine wonder rather than just tricks 📚 Before writing magic books, Harris worked as a teacher and incorporated psychological principles from education into his approach to designing magical effects