At the height of his magical genius, Ed Marlo was churning out so much brilliance that getting it all published felt like trying to herd cats. On the wise advice of David Solomon, he decided to print a handful of his own manuscripts, which then snuck into the hands of serious card magicians like a secret society (minus the robes and weird handshakes). Fast forward a few decades, and these "private manuscripts" have transformed into some of the most coveted and influential tomes in modern card magic.
The first among these treasures is The Unexpected Card Book. This isn't just a collection of tricks; it's a sprawling compendium boasting over 80 tricks and sleights, catering to various plots and skill levels. These routines aren’t just for fiddling during practice; many are direct, practical gems that feel as fresh today as they did over fifty years ago.
Inside, you’ll uncover eleven chapters that dive into a plethora of topics, including overhand shuffle wizardry, prepared effects, controls, and even the more peculiar like Clock routines and faro systems (because why not?).
Standout moments include Marlo's take on the Balducci Cut Deeper Force—arguably the clearest and most effective version you'll find—and a Wild Card routine that’s pure Marlo magic at its finest. Other must-tries are his "Simplex Blindfold Deals," "Success Story," "Miracle Faro Reverse," "Royal Monte," and "The Darkest Hour." And let’s not forget the clever moves like the Simple Push Switch and Marlo Center Deal, which are not only devilishly deceptive but also easy to pick up right away.
This book is a pivotal piece in Marlo's legacy, acting as a bridge between his underground manuscripts and his more mainstream works. Often dubbed "Volume Zero" of the Marlo Magazines, The Unexpected Card Book is a must-have for card magicians and magic buffs alike (seriously, don’t let this pass you by).
Vanishing Inc. has put in the elbow grease to ensure this republishing is top-notch. Every word has been retyped, every illustration redrawn, and every page redesigned to meet modern standards, all while keeping the original spirit intact. They’ve even included Marlo’s personal notes from his manuscript in this edition. So, not only is this the most complete version of The Unexpected Card Book; it’s genuinely a slice of magic history. Snag your copy today!
