Allan Ackerman – Here’s My Card

Price: Out of Print Format: Soft Cover Author: Allan Ackerman Illustrator: Deryl Skelton Publisher: GBC Press Pages: 109 pp. Published: 1978 Difficulty: Easy-Difficult

Allan Ackerman is renowned as one of the foremost card handlers globally, particularly celebrated in Las Vegas, where he resides. With four published books on card magic and numerous contributions to magazines and lecture notes, his expertise is widely acknowledged. Ackerman’s sleight-of-hand techniques are executed with precision, and his routines are meticulously crafted, showcasing his extensive training under legends like Ed Marlo and collaboration with Roger Klause.

Here’s My Card, published in 1978, is a compact yet invaluable manuscript for card enthusiasts. Originally priced at $4.00, it features 39 card effects, including original creations by Ackerman and contributions from his peers. Each effect is thoughtfully designed and refined for optimal performance.

Among the techniques presented, Ackerman offers three variations of the Convincing Control, including one that retains the card in a full bottom palm and another with a truly out-jogged selection. His unique take on the One Hand Center Deal is also included, alongside a one-handed setup for Marlo’s Tilt and a Riffle Shuffle block transfer.

The routines are equally impressive. Ackerman’s Impromptu Ultra Mental serves as an ungimmicked version of the Invisible Deck routine, while Quick Coincidence delivers an impromptu miracle. Additional highlights include a captivating sandwich routine, a Collectors routine culminating in a cards-to-card-case finale, a ten-hand poker deal, a full-deck Oil and Water routine, and a stylish Ace-cutting display.

Allan’s writing is clear and detailed, covering nearly all necessary moves, with only a few basic sleights omitted. Deryl Skelton’s illustrations complement the text beautifully, enhancing the learning experience.

This book is out of print and increasingly rare, much like Ackerman’s other works—except for his latest, Las Vegas Kardma. If you find a copy, I highly recommend acquiring it; you will undoubtedly enhance your card handling skills. Many of the routines and techniques from this manuscript and others by Ackerman are also featured in his video series, Advanced Card Control and The Allan Ackerman Videos.