Exploring the Art of Mentalism: Books and Resources for Beginners and Experts
Mentalism is a fascinating genre of magic that revolves around the demonstration of mental and psychic abilities without the use of physical objects. If you're interested in delving into the world of mentalism, several books can serve as excellent resources to understand and practice this art. This guide highlights some of the must-read books and other resources that will help you start or enhance your mentalism journey.
Essentials for Mentalism Beginners
For beginners looking to explore the world of mentalism, Corinda's 13 Steps to Mentalism is an essential book. Often referred to as the holy bible of mentalism, this book is deeply ingrained in the history of magic and is widely regarded as the go-to resource for aspiring mentalists. When learning mentalism, Corinda's book serves as a comprehensive guide, covering a wide range of techniques and providing clear instructions. You can find this book on platforms such as Amazon, eBay, or other online magic stores.
Another indispensable book is The Complete Guide to Mentalism by Annemann. This book is highly recommended for those who have delved into Corinda's teachings and are looking for a more advanced exploration of the art. The Complete Guide not only builds on the foundational knowledge from 13 Steps but also provides additional insights and techniques that will help you develop your skills further. Whether you're buying this book or browsing for it, make sure to check Amazon or similar online retailers.
Advanced Resources and Recommendations
In addition to books, the work of Bob Cassidy is also highly recommended for those who aspire to become advanced practitioners of mentalism. Bob Cassidy is one of the most respected mentalists, and his resources are known for their depth and practicality. Cassidy's materials are usually straightforward to learn and can be very beneficial for those who wish to refine their skills. While specific book titles by Bob Cassidy are not mentioned, his workshops and tutorials are widely available online and are a great way to continue your learning journey.
Additional Insights into Human Behavior and Thinking
While primarily focused on mentalism, understanding the broader contexts of human behavior and thinking can enhance your practice significantly. Two books that provide valuable insights into human behavior are:
The Culture Code: An Ingenious Way to Understand Why People Around the World Live and Buy as They Do
By Clotaire Rapaille, this book delves into the cultural codes and nonverbal cues that shape human behavior across different cultures. Understanding these codes can help you in reading minds more accurately and tailoring your performance to the audience you're engaging with. This book can be found on Amazon with the ISBN 9780767920575.
Moral Politics : How Liberals and Conservatives Think
By George Lakoff, this book provides a deep dive into the cognitive frameworks that underpin political and social differences between liberals and conservatives. Insight from this book can be valuable for understanding the different thought processes and beliefs of your audience, allowing you to tailor your performances more effectively. Available through Amazon with the ISBN 9780226467719.
Conclusion
Broadening your knowledge in mentalism and understanding the broader contexts of human behavior can significantly enhance your performance. Start with the foundational books like Corinda's 13 Steps to Mentalism and The Complete Guide to Mentalism, then explore more advanced materials by authors like Bob Cassidy. Additionally, reading about human behavior through books like The Culture Code and Moral Politics can provide you with a deeper understanding of your audience, making your mentalism performances more engaging and effective.