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Some Things with Cards
by John Holt
eBook
Reviewed by Elliott Hodges
I’ll start by saying that before this e-book, I’d never heard of John or
read any of his material. I always enjoy reading new authors (new to me anyway)
in magic.
This book contains six card effects and a bonus coin trick.
Fourbearers: This is John’s version of the collectors plot. I’ll be
honest; this is never a plot I’ve explored much. I have seen a few versions but
not actively researched this plot. Upon reading Johns, I had a quick run through
with cards in hand. It’s not difficult to do but I felt it was little
complicated and I’m sure there are simpler versions out there. Don’t quote me on
it though as I’m no expert on this as I mentioned earlier. It’s worth having a
look at though because it may be for you.
Fight: Aah now this is wicked. Absolutely wicked. It’s a “this is how a
magician would do it, this is how a mindreader would do it” kind of
presentation. It’s a two phase effect-neither effect is exactly new but John has
cleverly bought them together and given them a superb and logical presentation.
Slippy Sandwich: This is John’s addition to the ever-popular world of the
sandwich plot. It does not, as the description says, use the standard sandwich
move and has a lovely second phase. While being a good trick, I found it a
little complicated to follow and thus I had to read it a couple of times as I
followed with cards in hand. All in all, a lovely addition to the world of
sandwich tricks and well worth your attention.
Psychic Mystery Card of Death: The Chicago Opener has been one of my
favourite plots in card magic for a few years now and I have to say that John’s
version is absolutely superb. I confess to not having tried it yet due to not
having the gimmicked card that you need but really want to try it. It also has a
touch of “homing card” to it.
The World’s Greatest card Vanish: This is really cool. A card does indeed
appear to vanish while inside a spectator’s hand. Although John seems to
describe this as a trick in itself, I’d class it more as an idea to use in
fuller routines. It really is brilliant.
One Hand Palm Handling: I have always been impressed who can do this move
as I really struggled with it. I also felt it looked a tiny bit awkward because
of the slightly unnatural hand position. John has come up with a fantastic
solution to solve the awkward hand position and again, this is well worth your
time.
Bonus Trick: PDS Transposition. This was added at the end as a
bonus item. All I can say is that it is a jolly good job that it WAS added
because this is flippin awesome. It is a two “item” transposition that is
completely impromptu. It could be done with coins, finger rings and so much more
else. Gregory Wilson said “Not only do I like PDS…I wish I’d have thought of
it!” Praise indeed. This is such a good idea and is definitely my highlight of
the e-book.
Final Thoughts: Would I recommend this? Yes, absolutely. Not everything
on here is for everyone but it’s a fantastic read and if nothing else, will
certainly make you think. There are lots of fantastic little ideas and bits that
you can add into your already existing card routines.
Highly recommended.
Available from: www.johnholtmagic.wordpress.com/ebooks
© Elliott Hodges, August 2011