I am about halfway through this masterpiece, and I am very surprised that this book isn't talked about more.

The introduction was some of the best thinking on magic that I have EVER read, and many of the tricks have made it straight into my performing routines.

I would definitely consider this a classic, but I haven't heard much about before I actually bought it off my friend (who highly recommended it). Out of curiosity, what are your thoughts on this book?

Is that book still out of print?

I agree. This book was one of the first I bought when I got heavily back into magic many years ago. I bought it after seeing Mr. Carney lecture. The book is brilliant. Up to that point, I had not read something that really made me think about my magic the way this book did (and does). Great routines in it too!

I don't have it, but I understand his new book (The Book of Secrets) has more marvelous thinking. According to his website, it is still out of print---although it says "temporarily".

Sandy

This book has been mentioned and talked about here at the Café many times. The opening essay is considered a classic. Many consider this one of the best books published in the past 15 years or so.

I appreciate Carney's great insight and personal touches. A perfect example is his work with the Erdnase/Houdini color change. His suggestions are small, but often brilliant. If you can find a copy, it is well worth picking up.

One of my top 5 books, a classic.

Peo

The book alone is not very exciting---once you see Carney doing what is inside, it is a must! Carney's magic is brilliant, but to really appreciate it watch his videos, then go buy the book.

N

I fully agree with you, Nir!

Andre

Two words---"Simply Brilliant!"

OK, so maybe two words don't do it justice. This is possibly my favourite magic book. Everything Carney puts out is excellent and will only help you to become a better magician. I can't wait for him to transfer his old videos onto DVD.

Martino.

This book is indeed a classic. One of the top 10 books that I have ever read. Carney shares so much in this book beyond just great effects.

Okay, guys, what are the best card routines of Carneycopia?

Amen to that!

Bob

Read the last trick in the book. It's brilliant.

"Everwhere, Nowhere, On My Face" is definetely one of the best!

Hello,

See my mint copy in the books for sale section!

Rudy
"brownbeauty"

I just bought a copy at my local magic shop today. It was the last one they had. I took Larry's advice and read the last trick first. Does anybody know if he performs this on his videos or DVDs?

The last trick in the book "The Thirteenth Victim" is indeed on the video "Commercial Carney" and it's pretty funny too. I honestly believe that you can't go wrong with any of Carney's stuff. I'd love to meet him and take a few lesson's. Pity the Atlantic and most of the USA is in the way!

For those of you who have seen his lecture recently, what kind of things does he have for sale there?

This has to be my all-time favourite book.
I have both Carney books, "Carneycopia" and "The book of Secrets". I also own his "Classic Carney" video.

The effect 'Sanverted' is often mentioned as being the best trick, and I wouldn't agree (because I prefer other routines), but I perform this on a day-to-day basis. All the routines included have had loads of effort to make them seem as close to real magic.

The video works well as a companion to the book (I know he has several other videos, which also contain different stuff from the book). From the top of my head it contains (not in the correct order):

Half's in the Mist
Triumph Rip-Off
Hammanesque
The Match routine
The three napkin routines
The Bill in lemon, chop cup routine

Personally I think that Carney is one of the best thinkers in magic today. Having studied under the greats, he is well qualified as a well-taught student.

This is certainly proved in the "Book of Secrets"

Owen

Thanks for the information, Martino.

Is this book only on card tricks, or a bit of everything?