Comments on: The Ultimate Visual Experience . . . Reading

By: Jeff Stone

Jeff Stone — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 17:02:43 +0000

@Afinemesh – Thanks for the info. Although I’m not a packet trick guy, I do 1 or 2, but that’s about it. However, I do like Max Maven’s stuff, and I do like the fact that this book as an index of sleights. That alone is worth it to me. Thanks.

@Mathias – I agree. I think we’re pretty much on the same page.

By: Mathias

Mathias — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 23:09:30 +0000

@Jeff – Of course you wouldn’t in that case. However some presentations developed by the creators of certain tricks/routines should be followed as they were designed to give clarity and punch to the trick/routine. Like in the case of Ron Bauer’s performance-scripts.

Obviously you would have to develop your own presentation for a trick you learned in a book which wasn’t provided with one.

By: AFINEMESH

AFINEMESH — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 20:23:08 +0000

Jeff,
Max Maven’s (Phil Goldstein’s) “Focus” is appropriately sub-titled, 60 select card effects. If you’re into packet tricks, (I use the vulgar)and (full deck effects, as well)this is the book for you! Focus is Max’s take on all the classics, and more. You get Ace assemblies, face changes, back changes, oil and water, you name it! This book has the easy to understand (No Stone left unturned) “Maven” explanations we’ve come to know and love from Max. Along with excellent illustrations from Ton Onosaka and an index of sleights, this book has it all. This is a must for all card men! If you get it, let me know what you think. ENJOY!

By: Jeff Stone

Jeff Stone — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 18:07:55 +0000

In reply to Mathias. @Mathias - I've read that post before. I pretty much agree with the concept. However, there is one flaw in his argument, in my opinion. With music, you just play the notes that someone else wrote when you first start off. With Magic, the same is true with technique. Learn the technique and the patter as it is written. However, that doesn't mean that if you were performing an effect out of Royal Road To Card Magic that you would use the arcane language style that was used when it was written. You would use words that more fit your personality.

By: Mathias

Mathias — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 01:57:21 +0000

In terms of imitation, here's an interesting take from Mr. Whit Haydn. I was kinda surprised when I read it first, but it makes sense to me now.

By: Jeff Stone

Jeff Stone — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 05:40:47 +0000

In reply to AFINEMESH.

@Afinemesh – Thanks! How’s the Maven Book? I’ve read a lot of his stuff and love it. I haven’t heard of that one, however.

By: Jeff Stone

Jeff Stone — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 04:53:41 +0000

In reply to Grandpa Chet. @GC - Not in Utah.

By: Jeff Stone

Jeff Stone — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 04:35:22 +0000

In reply to salmononius2. @Sal - Check out Gypsy Monte by Paul Wilson. This is the exact same concept, but a MUCH better presentation.

By: Jeff Stone

Jeff Stone — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 04:32:28 +0000

In reply to OldZombie. @OZ - You are correct. I hope I didn't come across as criticizing him. The video has been up there for a while. When he first posted it, I made a comment (my youtube name is deolram) that is very similar to what you suggested. Here's the clip with comments on youtube: Jacked Up.

By: AFINEMESH

AFINEMESH — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 00:40:09 +0000

This “Roots and Branches” was great! While I own and like magic DVD”s a lot, I’m a veracious reader! Both for fun and magic books as well! When I first started learning magic I lived in Hawaii. I had the privilege and opportunity to study under the guidance of Curtis Kam. Kurtis taught me not only the importance of reading (magic books) but how inspiring the imagination factor of reading can be. Would I rather watch a video to learn an effect. Maybe, but If I read a book the Ideas are endless. By the way, the book I’m reading now is Max Maven’s “Focus”. A lifetime of brilliant card work! Nice column Jeff!