THE MAGIC MAKERS: Magic and the Men Who Made It

Edmonds combines an historical survey (from Persian magi and Egyptian priests to recent TV appearances) with explanations of how the magicians' tricks were and are--or at least could have been--done. Most are twists on the same trusty few--talking statues, levitation, bullet catching, ghost raising--though for brilliant innovators like escape artist Houdini it was the variation that counted. The backstage revelations might attract would-be practitioners but most books on magic tricks tell how they're done, and Edmonds' prosaic roster manages to dispel not only the mystery but the glamor as well.