Every once in a while, you come across a book that completely changes the way you think about magic. For me, that book is How Magicians Think by Joshua Jay, the co-founder of Vanishing Inc.
After just one read, it immediately became one of my Top 5 favorite books of all time.
What makes this book so special is that it isn’t simply a biography or another collection of magic stories. It’s a fascinating blend of personal experiences, history, psychology, philosophy, and behind-the-scenes insights into what makes magicians—and magic itself—so unique.
Joshua explores questions that almost every magician has asked at some point:
- Why are people so fascinated by magic?
- What separates a good magician from a great performer?
- How do magicians think differently about creativity, deception, and problem-solving?
- What can non-magicians learn from the art of magic?
The book is full of memorable stories from Joshua’s own career and his encounters with legendary magicians around the world. At the same time, it dives into the deeper ideas behind our art, making you appreciate magic on a completely different level.
One thing I especially loved is how approachable it is. Whether you’ve been performing for twenty years or you’re just getting started, there’s something valuable on every page. It constantly makes you stop and think, and you’ll probably find yourself looking at your own performances in a new way.
I also highly recommend the Audible version. Joshua Jay narrates the audiobook himself, and his storytelling makes the experience even more engaging. It genuinely feels like you’re sitting down with him over a coffee while he shares decades of experience, lessons, and incredible stories.
If you only read one magic-related book this year, I would make it How Magicians Think. It’s insightful, inspiring, entertaining, and thought-provoking from beginning to end. Whether you’re looking to become a better magician, a better performer, or simply understand why magic has captivated audiences for centuries, this book is absolutely worth your time.
