There have been a number of introductions to magic published, but we never felt they hit he right note. We have always felt the need of a first book for the newcomer’s primer, as it were. Frances Ireland Marshall put together (as her fifteenth book) this book that will take the beginner through the newness and strangeness of the world of magic. The book begins when laymen (young or old) discovers magic. Maybe they see a TV spectacular, or a big magic show, or a friend fools them with a trick. They feel the urge to do something about it. The Primer leads them, step by step into magic. It tells them what is inside the world of magic and how they can be part of it—the clubs and organizations, the many tricks, the future possible, options and possibilities are explained and discussed. There is good solid advice from professional Jay Marshall, to lead the newcomer in the right path. Then, with the aid of Jay Marshall, she arranged a glossary of words and terms that are familiar to the initiated magician, but gibberish to the newcomer to our field. This is all in The Language of Magic, in alphabetical arrangement, explained so it will never be foreign again. Following that, the kinds and types of tricks are explained, leading to a Program for a Little Stand Up Show, easy to do, routined, patter ideas given. Finally a very explicit section by Bob Miller, on Magic, The Wonder-Full Hobby. All the facts that make magic an art are there. Plus, this section could form the basis for a superlative talk on magic suitable for any group, or for a media interview at any level. Last, a bibliography leads the reader into the world of magic books. Nothing like The Magic Primer had ever been printed. And you don't have to be new to benefit by reading it! Please note that this book was originally published many years ago and some of the advice and social attitudes have aged poorly. That said, this is still a fantastic introduction to magic.
