If you have read Jack Parker’s latest Magicana in the recent Genii you will probably know that I’m working on a book of his magic. Since Jack’s article appeared in Genii, I’ve had lots of emails asking me about the book, its release date etc, so I thought I’d post up a few brief details about the book and give a short progress report.
The book will contain, amongst other things, 52 of Jack’s favourite creations. Over half of the book consists of unpublished card tricks, but since this is a best-of collection, owners of Jack’s other material would have seen some of the tricks before. I’m writing everything from scratch based on how Jack has taught the material to me either in person, on video or in print. Given that a decent number of the items from the book are multi-phased routines, this is going to be a massive book that will span several hundred large-sized pages.
Unfortunately, I can’t give an estimated release date, because it depends on so many factors. However, I can tell you that the first half of the book is currently being illustrated while I add the finishing touches to the second half. Around half of the book has already been edited and reviewed by Jack, but we still have a fair amount of work to do before we send it to the printers.
Those who are aware of Jack’s devasting health problems will understand the purpose of this book and the reason that Jack is sharing all of his favourite creations. Jack has requested that I spend as much time as required on this book to ensure that it is the best product as can be, so I won’t be rushing this book into print. It will take time, but it will be better because of it.
I’ll try to post updates as the project reaches important milestones, but for now if anyone has any further questions about the book please feel free to post a comment. I welcome your questions and am happy to tell you more about the project.
Oh snap! I cannot wait Jack is a GENIUS when it comes to card effects.
I never heard about his devastating health issue. What’s happening?
Andi and Jack:
I will wait…and I will buy. This is in tribute to Jack, plus…I just happen to like you guys’ thinking!
Jack has been an inspiration to me in more ways than one. His magic is simply brilliant and the man behind it is a class act and will be sorely missed. I can’t wait for this book, you know it’s going to not only look great thanks to Andi but have some fantastic magic for us to enjoy for years.
Andi, I can’t wait for the book and it will surely be a brilliant book. I am sure that it will reflect Jack’s great magic and his great passion for the art, and for life.
Hi, Andi -
We met at your lecture in Indianapolis, Indiana. You are a class act for taking on this task – while I’ve never met Jack, we corresponded a bit via email and I found him to be a nice guy as well as a genius with cards. This book will be Jack’s legacy, and I’m glad it’s in such good hands. Good luck – I’d be happy to help in any way, if that’s possible.
The book has not yet been published. But knowing the caliber of the man and the depth of his magic. It is already a “classic”.
I will definitely buy this book. I have already fallen in love with Jack’s stuffs!
Jack is going to be greatly missed and I cannot wait to buy this book, not only for the amazing effects it will contain, but to pay tribute to the man himself.
Hey Guys,
I hate seeing people talk about Jack like he’s no longer around. He may be a little down, but he’s certainly not out. He’s still kicking ass and continuing to be an inspiration to many (including myself), so feel free to drop him a line to let him know what you think of his work, or even to share an idea you’re working on. He’s a truly awesome guy who loves to talk and create great magic, so hit him up.
Don’t worry about “missing” him, when you can still experience his humble genius and wit.
This book is going to ROCK! (Thanks Jack and Andi!)
Tyler Wilson
Tyler – I think you’re exactly right! Jack is still with us (although he is quite fraile) and at times like this, its hard not to think about the fact that we will lose him at some point in the future, but we should still stay focused and think about what he has done and can still do to magic.
I’m just about to go and spend the day with Jack to dicuss some stuff from his book. I’m looking forward to hanging out with him and sharing some of my new material and seeing some of his too!
Now that Jack has passed away (R.I.P., Jack) – I offer much love to his family and after much time (for hurts to heal) has passed, they will have Andi’s book as a lasting legacy. Jack was a good & talented man. He’ll be missed.