Synopses & Reviews
Magic is the difference between the seen and unseen. Magic is performance. Magic is hard work and practice. But, sometimes, great magicians can make it into something truly mysterious.
The word "magic" has changed over time—first used for centuries to explain natural happenings like earthquakes and illnesses—but we still use it to describe things we see but don't understand. Now, H.P. Newquist explains how (nearly) all the famous tricks work in this nonfiction narrative of magic through the ages, from the legends and oracles of ancient Egypt, to the exploits of Houdini and David Blaine.
Illustrated with photographs and line drawings, this book will have middle-grade readers spellbound.
Review
For Boys Only:
"A must-have book for every boy adventurer.” —Jon Scieszka
"This graphically fresh and topically diverse collection should capture the imagination of its target audience.” —Publishers Weekly
Here There Be Monsters:
"[Newquist] seamlessly moves among exploration of history, mythology, film, literature and scientific discovery." —Kirkus Reviews
"An attractive, informative book on an underrepresented topic." —Booklist
The Great Brain Book:
"Detailed and informative . . . the hardcore science is balanced with anecdotes that will capture student interest." —School Library Journal
Synopsis
Magic is a word we use to describe something amazing, awe-inspiring, or spectaular. Truly great magic makes us believe in things we know cant be real. In the hands of the greatest magicians, even a simple card trick can become truly wondrous.
Now, in this nonfiction narrative of magic through the ages, HP Newquist explains how the worlds most famous tricks were created. From the oracles of ancient Egypt and the wizards of medieval Europe on to the exploits of Houdini and modern practitioners like Criss Angel, this book unlocks the secrets behind centuries of magic and illusion.
Fully illustrated and including step-by-step instructions for eight classic magic tricks, this book will have middle-grade readers spellbound.
About the Author
HP Newquist is the author of more than a dozen books for both children and adults, including For Boys Only and This Will Kill You. He has written hundreds of magazine articles and several documentaries, covering topics from medicine to music. He spends his time exploring the world and researching books with his wife and two daughters. newquistbooks.com