A Beginner's Guide to Magic, Part 1

I get constant requests asking about how one begins learning the art of magic. This can serve as a short guide to sources for magic, books, supplies, etc. (My thanks to Doug Atkinson for this idea and additional information.)

This small guide is designed as a jumping point for the beginner in magic. It provides some suggestions for books, videos, and information on tricks that will help you get started. It does not list every good book in magic, nor even every good beginner's book in magic.

Magic is more than just "tricks". The real magic is in the presentation. Two magicians can perform the same trick and get totally different results from the audience. Try to keep this foremost in your mind as you begin your journey.

Who knows — maybe you'll be the next Houdini or Siegfried & Roy!

Getting Started:

In most cases, you don't have to buy anything to get started in magic. Most public libraries will have many books on magic that you should read. These books will give you a good introduction, and will help you decide if an investment in other resources is warranted. Also, sometimes the effects you will find in library books are very, very good!

Books vs. DVD's vs. Tricks:

Books provide the most value for your money. You can receive dozens (if not hundreds) of effects in a book. The only downside is that they are not "demonstrated" as in a video.

When you purchase an individual trick, you get one effect for, let's say $30, versus 25 effects in a book for the same price. However, some magic tricks are pieces of apparatus that would take so long for you to make (or consist of material that you may not have access to) that the price you pay is well worth it!

Don't try to do too much at once, take time to read, read, and read some more. Learn the magic terminology. Your challenge will be to find the two or three magic effects that you want to do. (More than that, at the beginning, will be too much.)

Videos & DVD's provide a great advantage in that you can see what is often hard to describe in print. They are especially helpful with cards and other sleight of hand effects. While they could be a good vehicle for learning presentation style, many videos fall short in this area. Try to buy recommended DVD's, as they are relatively expensive (approx. $25 for six or seven effects), and it is easy to be disappointed.

Tricks: Try to avoid buying lots of tricks when you first start. It is best to read and practice tricks using everyday objects before purchasing magic. When you do buy, try to see the effect demonstrated first, as the advertisements are misleading and are meant to sell, not to describe. Or read about some of the tricks in magazines or reviews.

Don't avoid purchasing individual magic tricks. Even though it's the most expensive way to go... it's the most fun!

Magic Magazines and Organizations:

Magazines: There are several magic magazines available by subscription. They are generally not available at the newsstand, but you may find them at your local magic shop. Two of the most popular are Genii and MAGIC magazines. A subscription is not really needed for the beginner unless you really feel the bug. They are a good place to learn the "insides" of the magic community.

Also, the magic organizations listed below have their own magazines, The Linking Ring (I.B.M.) and the M-U-M (S.A.M.).

The internet also offers many online magic ezines for your reading — and, they're free!

Magic Organizations: The two largest magical fraternities in the world are the I.B.M. (International Brotherhood of Magicians), and the S.A.M. (Society of American Magicians). You probably live near a city that may have one (or both) organizations represented.

When you visit the I.B.M. or the S.A.M. sites, find out if a meeting is held near you. If they don't or you can't find one, just e-mail the organization and they'll send you some information.

Another good resource for you is the White Rabbit "Gatherings" Page. There, you will find many links to local I.B.M. Rings, S.A.M. Assemblies, and several smaller magic clubs.

Don't feel obligated to join a club; ask if you may attend two or three meetings to see if you like it. National membership is quite inexpensive, usually $30 a year or so (and that includes a monthly publication that generally is worth more than your membership fee). Local clubs will also have a nominal fee to attend their meetings (to pay for the room, refreshments, etc.). It's a great way to meet other fellow magicians, learn some new magic, attend lectures, and buy magic. You'll have fun.

Continue to Part 2

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

Original clipart by Bryan Dean