Book Test A Classic Mind-Reading Effect. The Book Test is a classic trick in the world of mentalism and mind reading, where a spectator chooses a book, flips to a specific page, and you correctly predict or reveal the words on that page. This version of the Book Test uses a stacked deck and a clever force to make the prediction seem impossible but incredibly accurate. Here’s how to perform this simple yet powerful effect.
Book Test A Classic Mind-Reading Effect
What You’ll Need
- Three Paperback Books: Choose books of similar appearance to make the selection process seem random.
- A Deck of Cards (14/15 Stack): Use a special stacked deck that will ensure the numbers you need. See below for stacking instructions.
- Notepad and Pencil: For writing your prediction, adding suspense, and making the reveal feel authentic.
Setting Up the Trick
1. Prepare the Deck in a 14/15 Stack
- Remove the Ace of Hearts and Ace of Spades.
- Arrange the remaining cards in the following order, starting from the bottom of the deck (cards are face down):
- With this stack, wherever the deck is cut, the values of the first two cards in the bottom pile will always add up to either 14 or 15.
- 2. Decide on a Prediction
- Choose a memorable line on pages 14 and 15 of the forced book (the book you want them to pick).
- Memorize the first line on both pages, or jot them down in light pencil on your notepad for reference.
- 3. Forcing the Book
- Use the magician’s choice technique (explained below) to ensure the spectator picks the book with your chosen prediction.
- Performing the Trick
- Step 1: The Book Selection (Magician’s Choice)
- Show the three books and ask the spectator to choose one.
- If they pick your intended book, proceed.
- If they choose one of the other two books, use magician’s choice to guide them back:
- Say, “Let’s set these other books aside and use this one.”
- Alternatively, ask them to select two books; if your book is not chosen, set those aside and use your book.
- Step 2: The Card Cut and Page Selection
- Invite another spectator to cut the stacked deck anywhere they like.
- Have them turn over the two cards on the bottom pile and add their values.
- Because of the 14/15 stack, the sum will always be 14 or 15.
- Ask the spectator holding the book to turn to the chosen page (14 or 15) and concentrate on the first line.
- Step 3: The Prediction Reveal
- Take a moment to “concentrate” on the spectator’s thoughts.
- Jot down a few words or a rough outline of the line you memorized or lightly penciled on your notepad.
- Ask the spectator to read the line aloud. Reveal your prediction, which matches the sentence or key words, creating a convincing moment of mind reading!
- Alternative Handlings
- 1. Illustration Method
- Instead of predicting words, you could create a simple sketch that represents the scene or action on pages 14 or 15 of the forced book. This variation works well if the line is descriptive or visual, adding a unique twist to the prediction.
- 2. Free Choice of Book
- To increase the illusion of fairness, let the spectator genuinely choose any of the three books.
- Prepare by lightly penciling lines 14 and 15 from each book onto your notepad. This way, you’ll be ready to “predict” the line from whichever book and page the spectator chooses.
- Key Techniques Explained
- Magician’s Choice
- Magician’s choice is essential here to subtly force the spectator to choose your preferred book without them realizing. This ensures they end up with the book you’ve memorized or marked.
- Stacked Deck (14/15 Stack)
- The 14/15 stack allows for a consistent result of 14 or 15, no matter where the spectator cuts the cards. This predictable result makes it easy to control the page number and confidently prepare your prediction.
- Tips for a Strong Performance
- Practice the Card Stack: Make sure you’re comfortable with the deck setup and handling, so the card cut appears casual and fair.
- Engage Your Spectator: Build suspense by taking your time, focusing on their face, and pretending to read their thoughts.
- Stay Relaxed: If you need to use the magician’s choice, do it smoothly without drawing attention to the choice process.
- Keep Your Notepad Subtle: Light pencil notes can be helpful if you worry about forgetting, but keep them discreet to maintain the illusion of mind reading.
- Conclusion: A Versatile Book Test
- The Book Test is a powerful routine in mentalism, and this version is simple yet effective. Using a stacked deck and magician’s choice allows you to control both the book and the page number, making the effect appear impossible. With practice, you’ll be able to impress any audience, leaving them amazed at your mind-reading abilities
