• The Mental Magick of Basil Horwitz: All 5 Volumes

In the foreword, Basil Horwitz shares his insights on mentalism and mental magic. He addresses concerns from fellow magicians regarding the use of playing cards in mentalism, emphasizing that audiences perceive them as familiar objects. Horwitz believes that blending magic and mentalism has never posed an issue for him. He describes his close-up magic as ‘Magic for the Hands’ and his mentalism as ‘Magic of the Mind’, closely linking his performances to psychology and body language. Instead of psychic readings, he now refers to them as body language readings.

Initially, Horwitz used disclaimers during his pure mentalism performances, but he often received comments suggesting that audiences believed in his abilities. He notes that many religious groups view hypnosis and mind reading skeptically. By branding his show as The Magic of the Mind and focusing on concepts like suggestion and psychology, he has avoided conflicts with these groups.

Horwitz recounts how mental magic helped him secure performances at an upscale restaurant. After explaining his approach to close-up magic and mentalism, he faced initial resistance from the owner. However, a personal reading for the owner and his wife sealed the deal, demonstrating the power of personalized magic.

Regarding publicity, Horwitz emphasizes the importance of having a compelling news angle and respecting reporters. His efforts have yielded a 95% success rate in gaining positive media coverage. He successfully arranged multiple stories for the restaurant, showcasing both magic and mentalism, with one reporter noting, ‘Your magic begins where most magic ends.’

Several esteemed mentalists previewed the effects in this book, particularly the Unlimited Principle, which garnered significant interest. One mentalist remarked that audiences genuinely believed in the reality of the performance. Another noted that the Hot Chair effect could easily be marketed for $500, highlighting its potential as a feature act.

Horwitz believes this new book, the fourth in his series, contains his finest material to date. He regularly performs every effect included and hopes readers will achieve similar audience reactions.

Illustrated by David Britland and edited by Martin Breese and Bob Gill, this series consists of five volumes:

• Volume 1

• Volume 2

• Volume 3

• Volume 4

• Volume 5

1st edition 1997, digital 2010; PDF 52 pages.

Table of Contents

1. Contents

2. Foreword

3. Psychic Roulette

4. The Unlimited Principle

5. Ultimate Challenge Thought and Clairvoyance

6. The Hot Chair

7. £100 Challenge Mind Control Test

8. Challenge Incredible Memory

9. The Super ESP Body Language Test