A psychological approach to card selection.
Hartling takes a classic plot—separating or identifying red and black cards purely by touch—and elevates it to a miracle. The spectator shuffles the deck, yet the magician can flawlessly determine the color of the cards without looking. The construction of the method ensures that even knowledgeable magicians are left completely fooled. 5. Unforgettable
: A,complex,routine involving card counting and location that leaves the audience questioning the reality of the situation. Pit Hartling Card Fictions.pdf
This is perhaps the most famous routine in the book and a definitive take on the classic "Triumph" plot. The magician shuffles the cards face up into face down, creating a chaotic mess. Without any suspicious moves, the cards instantly untangle themselves, except for a selected card. Hartling’s handling adds an unprecedented layer of fairness that leaves even seasoned magicians baffled. 2. The Core
The book's legacy extends beyond its critical praise; it has directly influenced the professional repertoires of performers worldwide. Master magician Pit Hartling chose a routine from the book for his appearance at the FISM Close-Up Gala Show, and David Blaine used another for one of his television specials. A review from a Chinese forum perfectly captures its lasting appeal: "Genius! This is my evaluation of this book. I think every serious card magician should read this book. It will definitely give you unlimited inspiration". A psychological approach to card selection
Hartling believes that a magic effect should be so clear that a spectator can describe it in a single, jaw-dropping sentence. If the plot is muddy, the magic is lost. Every routine in the book features a crystal-clear premise. 2. Methodological Layering
Here are the standout features of the book: The construction of the method ensures that even
The performer, using only one finger, can flick a spectator-specified number of cards off the top of a tabled deck, even while blindfolded. A version of this trick was famously performed by David Blaine on his Dive of Death TV special.
The routines utilize the absolute minimum amount of physical effort to achieve the maximum psychological impact.
What is your current ? (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced)
A routine where you kick any named number of cards off a tabled deck. 6. Triple Countdown