This set of notes is a lovely sampling of Tom’s thinking on close-up magic. The materials range from cards to cups and balls to mentalism. “Triball Rites” is a strange divination effect in which a spectator hides colored balls under cups. “Tortilla Aces” is Tom’s take on a Vernon effect, as recounted by Jerry Sadowitz. And Sneaky Palm Shift is something the move-monkeys will enjoy: a new approach to palming a card from the deck.

A Bite, my Dear? contains six curious routines:

• Triball Rites – A close-up mental effect.

• Tortilla Aces – Four aces appear from nowhere!

• Bottle up! – An impromptu bottle production.

• Sneaky palm shift – A strange way to steal out a card.

• Tusch Push – A line is drawn on the arm. The line is then moved to a different part of the body.

• Hoarders – A version of the Collectors.