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Campfire Magic

King, Mac

(Based on 1 review)
Renowned magician/comedian Mac King presents more than 50 amazing tricks and astounding (and often hilarious) feats of illusion for kids ages 9 to 12—perfect for the campsite or the great indoors!

In a book as lively and appealing as the magician himself, Mac King's Campfire Magic features dozens of easy-to-learn magic tricks and stunts, with a focus on feats that can be performed with rope, hats, bandannas, knives, coins, twigs, and anything else found around the campfire (or in the kitchen junk drawer).

Mac's humorous, easy-to-follow instructions (as well as the antics of his sidekick, Lewis the Monkey) are brought to life by well-known illustrator Bill King, who also draws the widely syndicated comic strip "Mac King's Magic in a Minute."

Readers will learn how to bake a cake in a cap; tie a knot with one hand; read their friends' minds; grow a plant—instantly; transform a dead twig into a leafy one; and much more! And as a bonus, two full-length magic acts (complete with patter) are included. With its durable binding and compact size, Mac King's Campfire Magic is the perfect field guide to entertaining friends and family, whether on the trail or in the living room.

Reviews

Gordon Meyer

Official Reviewer

Oct 03, 2010

Although I'm many years past being a budding young magician, or a cub scout, I thoroughly enjoyed Campfire Magic. Unlike many beginner magic books that are aimed at the general public, this book has a thoughtfully executed theme and an abundance of charm. I think that any youngster, even if they're not bitten by the magic bug, will appreciate the books humor and voice.

And even experienced magicians might find something to appreciate. Perhaps the back part of the book where King provides a full comedy magic act, complete with advice about loading your pockets with the props. Or, you might enjoy Todd Karr's trick, "Get a Life," in which the magician causes a seed to instantly grow to maturity. A trick you won't find anywhere else.

Campfire Magic is filled with fantastic illustrations by Bill King, which add substantially to the overall charm. If I had one criticism, it would be that the book is too focused on boys. While this is sort of apologized for in the introduction, it does seem a shame as I'm sure many girls, and girl scouts, would enjoy the book too.

Campfire Magic would be a fine gift for a child, or for your local library to add to their shelves. That's what I'm going to do, but with another copy, because I'm keeping this one.
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