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Dr Ross Loyal user Lincoln, UK 203 Posts |
Drew kindly sent me over my requested chapter - 'Concealed Carry'. Thank you Drew!
Before reading the routine, I read the Preface and Introduction for the book. Within these pages, you get a look into Drew's motivation for the book; some of his influences; his thinking style and approach to mentalism; and how he goes about creating his effects (which provides you with the meaning behind the book's title). These sections give you a real nice sense of who Drew is as a performer and as a person - which is great as I (like many) do not know Drew personally. After reading this, I felt ready (and even more keen) to read the routines that Drew had created. Of course - I only had the one chapter to read. I chose the RPS chapter as I have recently become interested in this theme - seeking out the works of those who have devised RPS effects (e.g., Chandaue, Murray, Di Biase), as well as creating my own. The RPS effect of Drew's is really nice. It involves playing 'Rock, Paper, Scissors' with a group of spectators within a premise that is fun and engaging. The scripting and choreography fits with this premise but also functions (in a very subtle manner) to facilitate the core method. This method involves a clever adaptation of a classic principle - allowing for a nice little impromptu and propless routine. As Drew notes, it works nicely as a kind of 'warm-up' effect to set the scene for what you can do as a mind-reader. What I also like about this routine is that it does not require anything to be written down (something I tend to find jarring for an RPS effect) - except for the more advanced version that incorporates a prediction of the final game. I can see spectators enjoying this routine, as well as being stumped by it (as they are allowed - when the time comes - to make free choices ). Also - it is worth mentioning that Drew's writing style is clear, and the design/layout of the pages is really nice. The effort that has been put into the book (as well as the effects) is evident! I look forward to trying this one out - and to the book in its entirety! - Ross
Ross Bartels
Author of: 'Vector' (propless code divination) https://www.mindfx.co.uk/products/vector-by-ross-bartels-e-book 'Janken' (propless RPS effects) - limited release 'Tacitus' (non-verbal propless effect) - limited release |
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Argon Regular user Germany 159 Posts |
Concealed Carry Review
Hi everyone, thanks to Drew for the chance to get a read on his work. I greatly enjoyed the Preface and feel it gives a good insight in who Drew is and what drives him. This makes his routines and effects just more enjoyable. I chose "Concealed Carry" a routine for the informal environment. This is a nifty little effect with a nice and effective method I enjoy to perform. As stated this works best in an informal environment. It is easy to perform and works 100%. Just be sure your partici-pants are sober enough to follow the instructions. ;-) If the rest of the book is as good it is a great I can recommend it! Take care Stefan |
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252life Inner circle Ninth Circle, Hades 3243 Posts |
Drew kindly sent me Phishing. (That sounds kind in any context lol)
I've realized I'm terrible at detailed reviews, so I'll just say I think it's great. I will be using this. I also like and appreciate Drews "voice". He's thoughtful, humble, realistic, and clearly passionate. He mentions Imposter Syndrome, and I felt better after reading his thoughts. Until...I saw a glimpse of his show, and dug into Phishing a bit more. Now I'm back to feeling like an imposter Phishing requires a bit of memory work that I think most here would find fun. It's well structured, justified, and engaging. I'm honestly excited to include this into my performances, and to get a hold of the entire book. Congrats Drew. If Phishing, and these reviews, are any indication, you've hit a home run. Thanks much.
Look for all the world like you're counting the brain cells in his cranium.
-Theodore Annemann |
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252life Inner circle Ninth Circle, Hades 3243 Posts |
Quick update;
Just road tested Phishing, the responses were fantastic. Good stuff
Look for all the world like you're counting the brain cells in his cranium.
-Theodore Annemann |
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MaxfieldsMagic Inner circle Instead of practicing, I made 3009 Posts |
Drew sent me Common Cents Prediction. I requested it because I've done Chris Funk's "One Dollar Mystery" many times, and I like the idea of a prediction written on a bill that comes as a surprise at the end. Drew's routine is very clever and comes with carefully worded scripting, although you can alter the reveals themselves without affecting the mechanics. I still love Funk's routine for stage or parlor, but this is the one I'll work on for close up and table hopping. There are absolutely no switches - the bill you give the volunteer is the same one you unfold at the end for the kicker ending, which seems impossible.
Now appearing nightly in my basement.
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DrewBstoss Special user SLC, Utah 582 Posts |
As someone with essentially ZERO track-record (for releases) I am exceptionally humbled that AOTM has already received more attention than I thought it ever would. I am indebted to everyone who has taken (or will take) the time to sample a chapter and post their thoughts. It is YOU ALL who are helping others find their way to this work - THANK YOU!
As a token of my appreciation I have decided to do something special - everyone who has shared (or will share) thoughts regarding their preview chapter on this thread (until December 25th) will be entered into a drawing wherein the winner will receive their copy of AOTM for free. This includes those who post on the FB group where I also announced the book. If you have already shared your thoughts you are already in the running. If you have not yet posted you have a few weeks to get your name entered. And if you have not yet requested a sample chapter what are you waiting for? PLEASE NOTE: This is not some feeble attempt to solicit positive reviews. You will be entered into the drawing REGARDLESS of the tone of your post. As always - I only want complete honesty in reviews. My only request to the winner is that you refrain from selling your copy. If the book ends up being one you do not want to keep in your library you are absolutely welcome to help it find a new home via giving it as a gift. Thanks again everyone - your support means the world to me. Best, Drew
"The world always seems brighter when you've just made something that wasn't there before." Neil Gaiman
Please consider subscribing to my newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hmdnUX |
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no2ss Inner circle California 1027 Posts |
Quote:
On Dec 1, 2018, DrewBstoss wrote: Er. Well, you said that you would only give it out to people with 50 posts, and I wasn't there yet, and didn't want to just spam the boards and promised myself I'd only post when I had something to say. But I'm at 49, so this is 50. Look out for a PM soon. |
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DrewBstoss Special user SLC, Utah 582 Posts |
Good point no2ss! The requirement to have 50 posts still stands.
I look forward to your PM Best, Drew
"The world always seems brighter when you've just made something that wasn't there before." Neil Gaiman
Please consider subscribing to my newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hmdnUX |
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John7 Regular user 137 Posts |
Although, on your website, it says to email you to request a chapter which I did but got no response. Nothing about any post requirement. No worries though - your book and you are free to do as you wish. Just pointing out the discrepancy.
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DrewBstoss Special user SLC, Utah 582 Posts |
John7 - I appreciate that you brought up your concern/question. To the best of my knowledge I have responded to all emails regarding AOTM. Please don't post it on this thread but are you certain you used the correct email? I concede that it's possible for me to have missed one or two emails though. There's been a marked increase as of late in the flow of messages I've received regarding AOTM (not to mention keeping up with clients about upcoming holiday shows). You're welcome to send a follow-up email to give me a second chance to engage
The 50 post minimum has a dual purpose: First, it helps ME avoid sending multiple chapters to an individual using fake accounts. Second, it helps VISITORS to this thread know that I am not (nor are my friends) creating fake accounts to bias the reviews. I'm sure that we've all had suspicions when reading rave reviews from someone with 5 posts under their belt on the Café. I simply wanted to avoid that perception. If there's anyone here with less than 50 posts that would like to take me up on the offer you merely need to click the link in my signature. Provided that you can answer the security question I'll do my best to honor your request (I still, of course, reserve the right to not send a chapter if I feel that abuse is happening). That said, as much as I'd love for you to add your voice to this thread, I ask that you don't post a review for the second purpose stated above. It's not that I don't value your opinion - I simply have to draw a line in the sand somewhere... It's a funny world in which we are involved (magic and mentalism that is). I would love to trust implicitly that those who request a chapter, or buy the book, are performers seeking information for the right reasons - but I have to have some safeguards in place to protect the secrets (along with the reputation of the project). If AOTM was a collection of COMPLETELY original methods I would feel more comfortable to "take chances" with the offer; but since AOTM is built off the back of so many other creators who have graciously allowed me to share aspects of their work I need to protect THEIR ideas as much as my own. Hopefully everyone can understand and appreciate the tightrope I'm navigating. For the sake of potential purchasers I want to be as transparent and helpful as possible with this release while still not shooting myself--or others--in the foot. Best, Drew
"The world always seems brighter when you've just made something that wasn't there before." Neil Gaiman
Please consider subscribing to my newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hmdnUX |
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John7 Regular user 137 Posts |
Just a note to say that Drew very kindly resolved the issue. In keeping with his request though, I won't offer any review. No sir. No review here. Complete poker face.
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John7 Regular user 137 Posts |
Also, just to clarify. I now realise I sent my initial email request to the wrong email address. Luckily my dim-wittedness is more than compensated for by my outstanding physical beauty
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DrewBstoss Special user SLC, Utah 582 Posts |
Quote:
On Dec 2, 2018, John7 wrote: Haha - best comment EVER! Best, Drew
"The world always seems brighter when you've just made something that wasn't there before." Neil Gaiman
Please consider subscribing to my newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hmdnUX |
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Fred E. Bert Veteran user New York, NY 359 Posts |
A few days ago I asked Drew for Catch Me 2.0, which he promptly sent, along with the Forward, Preface, Introduction, and Afterward, along with Catch Me If You Can (1.0) and In Defense of "Process"!"It was a plethora of freebies! Rather than go straight to the trick, I read the PDF in order, like he suggested. By the time I'd read the introduction, I was already hooked. Drew's writing style, personal philosophy and approach to Mentalism speak to me on many levels. I knew I'd like the book before delving into the effects.
Catch Me is the kind of "chairless" chair test that I love, involving multiple predictions about the outcome and the volunteers involved. There's a "process" involved - volunteers don't pick envelopes willy-nilly. But Drew's chapter "In Defense of Process" makes the point that process can be part of the entertainment and doesn't have to be a procedural bore. I agree with that. I can't wait to read the rest of Architect of The Mind. I'm sure Drew will have great success with his first book. |
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252life Inner circle Ninth Circle, Hades 3243 Posts |
Phishing is officially one of my go to effects now.
I’ve been performing this one a lot, and the reactions are fantastic. Wave after wave of head shaking, as opposed to that one ta-da moment. Had a perfect lead in at a show last night, when someone mentioned being hacked.. Ahhhhhhh good stuff Drew. A fun, smart and clever routine. (It must be huh? My third post about the *** thing lol) Drew’s gonna get a big swollen head soon sheeeeesh 252DamnGoodStuff
Look for all the world like you're counting the brain cells in his cranium.
-Theodore Annemann |
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aligator Inner circle Canada 2044 Posts |
Is the free preview chapter offer still available?
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DrewBstoss Special user SLC, Utah 582 Posts |
Aligator - the offer is still on PM away!
Best, Drew
"The world always seems brighter when you've just made something that wasn't there before." Neil Gaiman
Please consider subscribing to my newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hmdnUX |
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aligator Inner circle Canada 2044 Posts |
Sent a pm.
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Manos Kartsakis Loyal user 240 Posts |
I guess Drew will see you later then, aligator.
Sorry, couldn't help myself. This is indeed a great book though. Don't let my bad sense of humour distract you. |
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aligator Inner circle Canada 2044 Posts |
I won't. I did choose an effect and await it's arrival.
I will give a full report asap. |
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