Erdnase Unmasked by David Ben

For over a century, the true identity of the author behind “Artifice, Ruse and Subterfuge at the Card Table,” commonly referred to as “The Expert at the Card Table,” has captivated magicians and historians alike. This mystery has long stood as one of the last great enigmas in 20th-century magic — until now.

Magicana proudly presents the groundbreaking research of Richard Hatch, the foremost expert on this topic, alongside sleight-of-hand virtuoso David Ben’s insights into the author based on the book’s content. Together, they convincingly argue that E. S. Andrews is the true author of this influential work. Additionally, Hurt McDermott offers a thought-provoking analysis of the reasons behind the anonymous publication of “The Expert at the Card Table” and similar texts in Chicago. Jason England, a leading authority on advantage play, contributes a thorough examination of the various published editions and related materials.

This publication, crafted by designer Michael Albright, compiles articles from Magicol, the journal dedicated to magic history and collectibles. It also features a reprint of Martin Gardner’s seminal article, “Editions of Erdnase,” originally published in Magicol (Vol. 2, No. 1, August 1951), a private release for members of the Magic Collectors Association.

Details: 84 pages – Softbound – 5.5″ x 8.5″ (14cm x 21.5cm) – Limited Edition of 500 copies.