hillcountrymagic
$55.00
Condition: Very Good
Modern Magic Manual, written by master performer and author Jean Hugard and published in 1939 by Harper & Brothers, is widely considered one of the finest foundational single-volume textbooks on sleight-of-hand conjuring ever produced. Spanning over 300 pages with clear illustrations by Matthew Blint, the book systematically bridges the gap between basic beginner parlor tricks and advanced technical magic. Hugard covers a broad array of disciplines, detailing step-by-step mechanics for close-up and stage props including coins, cards, watches, rings, handkerchieves, balls, ropes, and mentalism props, making it a comprehensive reference for working amateurs and professionals alike.
Beyond raw sleight mechanics—such as palms, passes, false shuffles, and switches—Hugard places heavy emphasis on the psychology of magic, routining, timing, and misdirection. Rather than treating tricks as isolated puzzles, the text teaches how to assemble sleights into polished, continuous routines complete with theatrical presentation and misdirection strategies. Its practical approach and crystal-clear explanations made it an instant classic upon release, serving as a primary training manual for mid-20th-century magicians and cementing Hugard’s reputation as one of the premier instructional writers in magic history.
For Bibliophiles & Collectors- To verify a true 1st edition, check the title page for the Harper & Brothers 1939 imprint and the publisher's letter code on the copyright page (Harper used a two-letter code system, with "M-O" or similar indicating late 1939 printing). This edition is a true first edition.
