“You control the forces of the universe!” begins this upbeat introduction to magic that slyly folds science and math concepts into clearly explained tricks with lively names, such as “Give It Up for Gravity!” Each lively spread, illustrated with digitally rendered cartoons, begins with step-by-step instructions for carrying out the tricks, most involving common household items; and the added script suggestions for what to say, as well as what to do, are particularly welcome. Also included on each spread are “What’s Going On” text boxes that discuss concepts (“Geometry is your secret assistant in this trick”), as well as interesting related facts, often displayed in colorful text balloons. Becker shows that young people’s ingenuity has long contributed to magic history: in 1869, for example, a 16-year-old American discovered that lemon juice could be used to make invisible ink. Teachers may want to borrow ideas for interactive classroom fun, while a closing “Magician’s Survival Guide” offers tips for putting together an independent show. Fun and instructive for a wide age range of aspiring illusionists.
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