From the Introduction:"John Hamman's effects, sleights, and handling of a pack of cards are used by magicians all over the world. He has no use for time-worn sleights — he creates new ones to fit the effects he dreams up. He is truly a titan with a pack of cards.In this book he shares his precious secrets. You may be able to learn them, add them to your repertoire, but there is no way for you to imitate his gentle, quiet, and lovable manner. After all, he is Brother John Hamman." - Gene DeVoeFrom the Foreword:"I have collected here those tricks and notions that I like, and audiences too. Some of my past material is included here, and some not, because I fell it is now dated or less effective. But what is here comprises a sweep of effects, magical, visual, and entertaining that should give you value for your efforts. Learn them in such a way that you understand them, why the effect is accomplished, not just how. Magic is in the mind of the spectator — mon in your fingers. If you understand what the flimflam is doing to the spectator's imagination, you will magically entertain him. Sleights will not — it's the plot, the visual sting, and the performer. So study the scams that fit your personality, don't just memorize them. They work for me because they are me. Have fun." - Brother John Hamman, S.M.Hardbound and Fully IllustratedPages 252
