hillcountrymagic
$109.85
Condition: Very Good
First published in 1948 by the Fleming Book Company and edited by Jean Hugard, George G. Kaplan’s The Fine Art of Magic is widely regarded as one of the definitive modern classics of conjuring literature. Spanning 11 chapters, 24 fundamental principles, and 80 complete routines, the book outlines Kaplan’s highly refined approach to close-up, platform, and mentalism magic. Rather than relying on difficult sleight-of-hand or cumbersome props, Kaplan emphasizes economy of motion, natural handling, and clever psychological subtleties—establishing a standard for elegant, practical construction that has made the text a long-standing favorite among serious workers.
The text begins with foundational tools—most notably Kaplan’s extensive work on the corner-short card, subtle peek controls, and secret utility gadgets—before moving into specific performance sectors. It offers comprehensive sections on close-up and platform card magic (such as the Will-o'-the-Wisp routine and The Kaplan Rising Cards), an extensive selection of mentalism effects (including billet switches, book tests, and his Capitol Problem), and refined coin work like The Kaplan Okito Box Presentation. The book concludes with platform showstoppers—such as his Nest of Boxes routine and Gypsy Thread—along with analytical essays on showmanship, programming, and structuring performance repertoires.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UICB5JJxJ_U
This video offers a comprehensive overview and review of The Fine Art of Magic, discussing its contents, structure, and why it remains a fundamental text in classic magic literature.
