Review Detail

Sid Fleischman, the talented Newberry Medalist, used to work as a professional magician and had an understandable interest in Harry Houdini. His love of the magicians art inspired him to write this very interesting and engaging book on Houdini, perhaps the greatest magician the world has ever known and definitely the most famous bamboozler in all of history.

I dont know that anyone else could have written this book. Fleischmans connection to the prestidigitation arts gives him an insiders knowledge and love of the craft. He also personally knew Bess Houdini, Harrys widow, and so had access to information and photographs that others wouldnt have had. But the thing that really stands out in the book is his love of the art and the man.

The book covers Houdinis earliest years at home and follows him as he sets off at a very young age to get a job and help support his family. The middle years, when things were a struggle and Houdini used his wits, talent (both for magic and self-promotion), and determination to get ahead are the most interesting, though the later years when Houdini was famous but still very, very active are also riveting.

I really appreciated that Fleischman didnt gloss over any of the details of Harrys life. He gives us some of the embarrassing details (like how Harry would airbrush other people out of photographs to highlight himself) and intimate details that really makes the story come to life. He also does NOT give away any of the magic secrets that Houdini used, instead encouraging readers to begin their own exploration of magic with a list of books for further reading.

I only knew the basic facts about Houdini before reading this book (its a CYBILS nominee in the non-fiction category), but now I feel like I knew the man and, through his writing, a bit of Sid Fleischman as well. Few biographies are this engaging, entertaining, and informative and I encourage readers of all ages (especially those 10 and up) to pick this book up and get lost in the magic. Very highly recommended.