On Second Thought... Mentalism, Meaning, and Performance is a delightful collection of Paul Draper's first eight years of columns from M-U-M, the esteemed magazine of The Society of American Magicians. Forget just the tricks—this book is a veritable treasure trove of insights, stories, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from years of performing (and probably a few blunders along the way).
Inside, you’ll uncover not just stunning mentalism effects and magic routines, but also the juicy backstory that makes them sing. Draper dives into the nitty-gritty of why these tricks work, exploring everything from performance nuances to theatrical flair (because looking good is half the battle).
Presented in a chronological format, each section offers a thoughtful reflection on past experiences while moving forward into fresh territory. And don’t worry—they stand on their own, packed with wit and insight that’ll make you chuckle whilst you learn.
Plus, you’ll find guest contributions from some pretty clever folks, sharing their expert nuggets of wisdom and pointers for further exploration (because who doesn’t love a good rabbit hole?).
In short, this book is your backstage pass into the life and creative process of a full-time pro who knows his onions.
About the Author:
Paul Draper is a mentalist of international repute, a comedy presenter, and a keynote speaker who has charmed audiences from the United Nations to Apple, and from Cambridge to Broadway (yes, he’s kind of a big deal).
He’s graced the screens of the History Channel, HBO, A&E, and a bunch of others, popping up in shows like Inside the NBA, Hell's Kitchen, Pawn Stars, Ghost Adventures, Mindfreak, and House Hunters. No, he’s not just a pretty face—Draper’s an expert in magic, psychology, and human consciousness, performing in top venues like The Magic Castle in Hollywood and The Magic Circle in London (talk about a CV!).
When he’s not busy dazzling crowds, Draper is a popular speaker on topics such as leadership, communication, and the psychology of influence (so he’s basically your go-to guy for making sense of the madness). As a trained anthropologist and an active member of the Society for the Anthropology of Consciousness, he delves into diverse cultural expressions of belief and ritual, blending academic insight with the arts of illusion (yes, he really does it all).
BACK COVER QUOTES
"Few people can conjure lucid and creative thoughts to text the way Paul Draper does. His years of experience and research have been eloquently written in language and terms that everyone can learn from and understand. Your journey through his writings will bring you joy and enlightenment." Scott Wells • Host of The Magic Word Podcast
"I like to read thoughts from smart people. Paul's brain works differently from my brain, I always get something I didn't know from his work, and I never miss the chance to read what Paul is saying." Stephen Bargatze • Award winning comedy magician & Nate Bargatze's dad
"This book will make you a better performer because it invites you to think more deeply about the conditions in which magic truly thrives. Enjoy these pages. Paul will make your magic and your life better!" Jeff McBride • Founder of the McBride Magic & Mystery School.
"Paul Draper is one of the most thoughtful and insightful voices in magic today. He also has a mountain of real-world experience. That is exactly who we should listen to, someone who has thought deeply about magic and has also done it in front of paying customers!" Lance Burton • Master Magician
"Magicians often say, 'You already know enough tricks.' Paul Draper is one of the very few who can convincingly show you what to do with that knowledge. These essays move effortlessly from practical how-to insights to bigger questions about why audiences believe, remember, and care. This book will challenge your assumptions, sharpen your thinking, and give you immediately usable tools for making your magic more meaningful, more commercial, and more unforgettable." Tobias Beckwith, • Theater author, director, and manager
"Paul Draper guides us through a wealth of information that's all over the mentalist's map. Peppered throughout are useful tips, tricks, and full routines worth your time and attention. One of the first technique's I read I know I'm going to be putting to work immediately! What will you find? These pages are waiting for you to discover them." Patrick G. Redford • Mentalist, magician, and creator
"From the first time I saw Paul Draper perform I always felt that he had a special connection with his audience. There are a lot of performers running around, but only a few who truly connect and raise our art to a higher level. Paul Draper is one of those!" Richard Osterlind • Mentalist and creator
