It is a beautifully produced hardback book of just over 200 pages including the index. It is well illustrated throughout with lots of interesting photographs covering ‘the life’ and clear diagrams explaining ‘the magic. The book started off as a writing project by Shaxon himself, but was cut short by his sudden death, so Scott Penrose and Steve Short took on the task of completing the book.

The first half outlines Shaxon’s life. For me, although it was a fascinating read, it was a little unsatisfactory as a biography. It read more like a list of his professional engagements – I would have loved a little more detail and personal anecdote. There were some of these, but I always love finding out more. There are some nice reminiscences – especially about his close friend Robin Harbin – himself a wonderful magician with a fascinating life. Indeed, several items explained in the magic section owe their origin to Robert Harbin. Other magicians share memories of working with Shaxon and highlight the high regard in which he was held by his peers and colleagues.

The second half explains a good number of routines which were used by Shaxon throughout his working career. There are some simple yet effective (close up) card effects, but the majority of the items are his staple cabaret/platform effects. Almost all the signature Shaxon effects are in there – including Aerial Fishing (an effect almost synonymous with him), his T&R newspaper, Hydrostatic Glass, and of course his wonderful Confabulation. There are plenty of other effects too.

Some of the presentations may be a little dated for modern tastes, but there is much to be learned here about routining and entertaining – and of course one of my own key beliefs that method is nothing and effect is everything. A number of the items well illustrate the principle that you need the simplest possible method to achieve the effect rather than the flashiest.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book and there are ideas and effects that I will take away too. It comes highly recommended for anyone with even a passing interest in this wonderful period of magic history or the desire to learn from a master of magic.

Available direct from MagicShop.co.uk or your favourite Murphy’s Magic dealer.

Review copy kindly provided by Murphys Magic to whom dealer enquiries should be directed.

The post Alan Shaxon – The Sophisticated Sorcerer – Review appeared first on Bicycle Cards.

We’re going to start by reminding you about Sizzle the excellent new release from John Bannon.  We reviewed it before Christmas but are still enjoying the amount of magic you get out of so little effort.  If you love packet tricks you should buy it.  If you don’t love packet tricks you should still buy it.  And at the sizzling (geddit) price of £17.99 what are you waiting for?

Now you’ve put away all your Christmas cards you’ll clearly be wanting to buy a few more new cards to brighten up your home and spice up your collection. Here are some nice new ones now available in the UK. The Excellence Deck won’t win any prizes for its name, but is an elegant looking release. It comes with a linen finish which we find handles quite nicely and the woodcut effect of the jokers is rather pleasing to the eye.  £8.49

The ongoing interest in the Steampunk aesthetic has resulted in another edition from Gamblers Warehouse –
this time in White – which seems almost a contradiction in terms… But if skulls and steam are your thing you’re going to love these new cards.  £13.99

And should the lull after Christmas give you time to snuggle up with a good book, we’re currently really enjoying
The Genius of Robert Harbin – a wonderful book which tells something of the biography of one of the 20th centuries greatest magical thinkers and performers and also includes the details of many of his superb creations.  An inspiring book, beautifully produced, which will stimulate your magical thinking. £31.99

That’s all for now. Don’t forget to check back for the latest news, reviews and Bicycle cards! When we get a minute (or three) we’ll be reviewing the new Liam Montier DVD. In the meantime, enjoy your magic!

The post Trick of the Month – January 2015 – new cards and more appeared first on Bicycle Cards.