The Best Mentalism Books for Beginners: Your Complete Guide to Getting Started

Starting your journey in mentalism magic tricks doesn't have to be overwhelming. While the art of mind reading and psychological entertainment might seem mysterious, the path to mastering it is well-documented in several essential books that have guided mentalists for decades. Whether you're looking to learn your first mind-reading trick or develop a professional act, these foundational texts will provide everything you need to begin.

The Two Essential Foundation Books

1. 13 Steps to Mentalism by Tony Corinda

Universally recognized as the bible of mentalism, 13 Steps to Mentalism is the single most important book any aspiring mentalist can read. Originally published in 1961, this comprehensive guide breaks down mentalism into 13 manageable steps that cover virtually every major aspect of the art.

What you'll learn:

• Swami gimmicks and nail writing

• Billet reading and center tear techniques

• Book tests and predictions

• Two-person telepathy codes

• Blindfold work and publicity stunts

• Question and answer routines

• Essential presentation and patter techniques

The book covers nearly every fundamental technique still used by professional mentalists today. Many modern mentalism effects can trace their roots directly back to the lessons taught in Corinda's masterwork. While some readers find the writing style dated, the core techniques and principles remain as relevant today as they were 60 years ago.

Available on handpickedmagic.com:

• 13 Steps to Mentalism PLUS Encyclopedia of Mentalism and Mentalists - $36.90(includes bonus material on famous mentalists)

• 13 Steps To Mentalism Special Edition Set - $99.95 (premium collector's edition)

2. Practical Mental Magic by Theodore Annemann

The perfect companion to Corinda's work, Practical Mental Magic offers a more accessible writing style while covering nearly 200 astonishing feats of mental magic. Written by one of mentalism's greatest pioneers, this book focuses on practical, performable routines rather than just theory.

What you'll discover:

• Effects with billets and pellets

• Book tests and publicity effects

• Envelope necromancy and slate routines

• Money mentalism and blindfold reading

• Card-based mentalism effects

• Psychic codes and two-person work

Annemann's genius lay in creating powerful mentalism effects using simple, everyday objects. His routines are thoroughly explained with insider tips on staging, patter, and audience management. The book is particularly valuable for beginners because it shows how to transform simple methods into miracle-level entertainment.

Available on handpickedmagic.com:

• Practical Mental Magic by Theodore Annemann - $19.95

Essential Intermediate Books

3. PRISM: The Color Series of Mentalism by Max Maven

For those ready to move beyond the basics, Max Maven's PRISM collection represents some of the most clever and influential mentalism ever created. Originally published as five separate booklets that sold for hundreds of dollars on the secondary market, this hardcover compilation contains 53 effects that have become modern classics.

What makes PRISM special:

• Innovative effects with simple methods

• Strong, memorable presentations

• Suitable for close-up, parlour, and stage

• Clear explanations with historical context

• Effects like "Desire" and "Four-sided Triangle" that professionals still perform today

Maven's work is perfect for mentalists who want to develop a more sophisticated repertoire. The effects span the entire range of mentalism performance, from impromptu close-up pieces to full stage presentations.

Available on handpickedmagic.com:

• PRISM The Color Series of Mentalism by Max Maven - $60.00

4. Psychological Subtleties by Banachek

The master class in psychological mentalism, Banachek's Psychological Subtleties series teaches you how to transform simple mental magic into powerful psychic entertainment. Written by one of the most respected mentalists in the world, this book focuses on purely psychological methods rather than mechanical tricks.

Key features:

• Effects requiring no advance preparation

• Techniques that can be performed at a moment's notice

• Psychological methods that create genuine amazement

• Subtleties that make audiences believe in real psychic powers

• Contributions from top professionals in the field

As Teller notes in his introduction, this is "a very dangerous book" because the psychological methods are so convincing they could make audiences believe the performer has supernatural abilities. The book is essential for anyone wanting to understand the psychological aspects of mentalism.

5. The Principles of Mentalism by Richard Osterlind

A masterclass in professional performance, Richard Osterlind's Principles of Mentalismshares the insights of one of mentalism's most successful performers. Drawing on over 40 years of professional experience, this book teaches the "why" behind successful mentalism rather than just the "how".

What you'll master:

• How to develop your performing style

• What audiences really want to see

• The proper use of uncertainty, tension, and surprise

• How to make mentalism more commercial

• The secret of the "Power Silent Script"

• Why procedures actually benefit your mentalism

This book is invaluable for mentalists at any level who want to understand how to connect with audiences and create truly memorable performances. It's particularly valuable as a companion to the technical books, showing how to present material effectively.

Available on handpickedmagic.com:

• Principles of Mentalism by Richard Osterlind - $25.00

Additional Beginner-Friendly Resources

Self-Working Mental Magic by Karl Fulves

Perfect for absolute beginners, this book offers easy-to-perform effects that require no sleight of hand or difficult techniques. It's an excellent starting point for those who want to experience quick success before tackling more advanced material.

Available on handpickedmagic.com:

• Self Working Mental Magic by Karl Fulves - $10.95

Fundamentals of Professional Mentalism by Bob Cassidy

A comprehensive guide to the business of mentalism, Bob Cassidy's Fundamentals provides essential insights that every serious mentalist needs. The book includes Cassidy's famous list of "39 Steps to Mentalism" - the 39 most important books every mentalist should read, with explanations of why each is valuable.

Your Learning Path: Where to Start

For absolute beginners, start with these books in this order:

1. Self-Working Mental Magic by Karl Fulves ($10.95) - Get your feet wet with simple, effective tricks

2. Practical Mental Magic by Theodore Annemann ($19.95) - Learn foundational routines and presentations

3. 13 Steps to Mentalism by Tony Corinda ($36.90) - Master the complete technical foundation

For those ready for intermediate study:

4. Principles of Mentalism by Richard Osterlind ($25.00) - Understand professional presentation

5. PRISM: The Color Series of Mentalism by Max Maven ($60.00) - Develop a sophisticated repertoire

6. Psychological Subtleties by Banachek - Master the psychological aspects

Why These Books Matter

These books represent decades of professional experience distilled into practical, learnable formats. Unlike many modern mentalism resources that focus on single tricks or gimmicks, these foundational texts teach principles and techniques you'll use throughout your entire career as a mentalist.

The beauty of starting with books rather than videos or downloads is that mentalism relies heavily on understanding psychology, presentation, and the subtleties of human behavior. Books force you to think deeply about these concepts rather than just copying movements or techniques.

Building Your Mental Library

Investing in quality mentalism magic books is investing in your future as a performer. While the initial cost might seem high, consider that a single corporate performance using material from these books could pay for your entire library many times over.

These books also serve as lifetime references you'll return to again and again. Many professional mentalists report discovering new insights and applications even after multiple readings of the same texts.

Ready to begin your mentalism journey? Start with the foundational texts available on handpickedmagic.com and begin building the skills that will serve you for a lifetime in the fascinating world of mentalism. Remember, every master mentalist began exactly where you are now - with curiosity, dedication, and the right books to guide their path.