Just a quick poll here. I would just like to hear how you guys read magic books. I personally read through and take notes. Then re-read the book and work through the material and use the props. So, how do you read?
How Do You Read?
- Thread starter JustinPillard
- Start date
For most books, I read them through once, cover to cover, taking mental notes of things that I like. Pick them up a couple of years later and skim them trying to remember the things that I liked the first time I read them. Other books (primarily Card College and Tarbell), I use as references because I haven't had time to read them cover to cover.
I also will research an effect typically using the Behr Archive (http://www.conjuringarchive.com), MagicPedia, the Genii Forums or the Cafe, and then read the various versions in the books in my library. I was actually doing this with Out of the World yesterday -- I found versions in Card Control, Mastering the Art of Magic, Art of Astonishment, Relaxed Impossibilities and Card College Light.
I also will research an effect typically using the Behr Archive (http://www.conjuringarchive.com), MagicPedia, the Genii Forums or the Cafe, and then read the various versions in the books in my library. I was actually doing this with Out of the World yesterday -- I found versions in Card Control, Mastering the Art of Magic, Art of Astonishment, Relaxed Impossibilities and Card College Light.
I prefer to work through a book slowly trying to work through each effect so that I understand exactly how it works. When possible and if it seems doable I will try an effect on a family member or friend. After I have read through the book thoroughly it goes on my shelf and I use it a reference. Because I prefer to be thorough I hate poorly written books and tend to be fairly picky with the books that I select.
My process for reading a book is very similar to those mentioned already. To add to the discussion, I personally use a rating system in my books. I also write in my own books, so if you like keeping the books pristine, then maybe use Post it flags or something similar.
My rating system goes as follows; 1 Star = I either don't like the trick or it is something I wouldn't do. 2 Stars = interesting trick, probably didn't fly off the page right away, but I want to remember it for future reference. 3 Stars = Possible keeper. I want to learn this trick.
This will also help you track how much your interests change over time, which is just spiffy, in my opinion.
My rating system goes as follows; 1 Star = I either don't like the trick or it is something I wouldn't do. 2 Stars = interesting trick, probably didn't fly off the page right away, but I want to remember it for future reference. 3 Stars = Possible keeper. I want to learn this trick.
This will also help you track how much your interests change over time, which is just spiffy, in my opinion.