Exceptional magic tricks often stem from an insatiable curiosity. Few magicians embody this passion like Ben Daggers, who draws inspiration from various sources to craft extraordinary magical effects. With the support of Vanishing Inc., he now unveils his most treasured creations in The Elusive Illusive.

This stunning hardback book is essential for any magician who values captivating, entertaining, and thought-provoking magic. As Pit Hartling aptly noted in the introduction, Ben’s magic is both straightforward and impactful. The clear narratives, powerful effects, and engaging presentations keep audiences enthralled.

Ben’s achievements are the result of a lifetime dedicated to mastering magic. From exploring Osaka Castle with Richard Turner to late-night jam sessions with Juan Tamariz, Ben’s relentless pursuit of the perfect magical effect is evident.

The Elusive Illusive features over 200 pages of meticulously crafted routines that Ben has tested in front of live audiences. It includes 12 unique performances that are both magical and entertaining, alongside several original techniques—highlighted by one of the most convincing full-deck false shuffles you’ll ever witness. Additionally, Ben offers three insightful essays on thinking like a layperson, his perspective on the classic force, and the significance of revisiting classic material.

This book is grounded in reality, showcasing routines and techniques that Ben employs in his professional engagements, including a long-running weekly show. The effects range in difficulty, ensuring there’s something for every magician.

For those who appreciate pure magic, “Technicolor” is a standout—a pseudo card cheating act that humorously concludes with every card’s back design changing. “Tribute” showcases skill as you blindfold yourself to shuffle and locate all four Aces with one hand, culminating in a surprising finale.

If you lean towards theatrical performances, “Invisible Sleeves” presents a Coins Across routine where the magic appears to be facilitated by an invisible jacket. “Babel Coins” is another captivating routine where, aided by a special “elixir,” you visually transform coins.

While The Elusive Illusive primarily features card and coin magic, it also includes routines suitable for larger audiences. “Hands Off ACAAN” is a remarkable parlor piece where a spectator finds a named card at a specified position in an audience-shuffled deck placed in a wine glass. Spectators even count the cards themselves. “Uncommon Sense” exemplifies Ben’s creativity, engaging all five senses to perform astonishing feats of magic, using unconventional props to enable spectators to replicate them.

Many routines are versatile, performing well in both casual and formal settings. “One-Track Mind” transforms a spectator into a card-tracking expert, locating a named four-of-a-kind after a brief glance at a shuffled deck. “Triumph for Two” pits you against a spectator in a race to sort cards shuffled face up into face down, leaving them amazed as you magically resolve the leftover chaos in their hands.

The Elusive Illusive is an inspiring resource that will ignite your curiosity. Like all Vanishing Inc. publications, it is expertly organized, featuring clear writing and vivid illustrations that simplify the learning process. Grab your copy today!