Discover the Untold Story of Boomsky

At just thirteen, Milton Hudson Everett embraces his role as Boomsky, the endearing yet clumsy assistant to the legendary magician Alexander Herrmann (1844–1896). Loved by audiences across America, Boomsky’s antics—like tumbling over top hats and dropping trays of borrowed watches—bring laughter and joy. Yet, beneath the surface, Boomsky is a masterful magician’s assistant, expertly concealing his true talents.

For a group of African American teens, the role of Boomsky serves as both a training ground and a springboard to success. In the face of adversity during segregation, eight former Boomskys rise to prominence as magicians, musicians, and comedians.

While Herrmann’s protégés captivate millions, their remarkable stories remain largely unrecognized by the segregated media, relegating them to obscurity. Now, over a century later, the captivating saga of magic’s hidden history is unveiled in this thrilling narrative of adventure, triumph, betrayal, and resilience.

“Margaret Steele has restored an important lost chapter from the Golden Age of Magic in a thoroughly researched, entertaining tale that reads like an adventure novel—rare magic indeed.” – David Copperfield

“With storytelling prowess and an unflinching commitment to the truth, Margaret Steele presents an illusion-shattering narrative that unfolds like a cinematic odyssey. Don’t miss the astonishing tale of ‘Boomsky’!” – Michael Carbonaro (The Carbonaro Effect)

“Margaret Steele compassionately and defiantly presents the story of someone whose existence was deliberately and almost completely erased. Now it has been restored, exposing the real history that will be forever told and embraced by all of us. In my view, this book is a genuine form of atonement.” – Dr. Lynn Jones, Activist/Member of the Order of Canada