Bertram on Sleight of Hand

Ross Bertram has a lifetime reputation as a sleight of hand performer, with the most natural moves of anyone in that field. To not skew words, here is directly from the dust-jacket of this book:

If you were to epitomize the sleight of hand of Ross Bertram in one word, it would be natural. No phony moves, no jerky motions, no changes in hands, eyes, or voice. In this, Bertram's second book, you will learn the true art of sleight of hand magic from one who can only be called an artist.

There is absolutely no chaff in this book; all the moves and effects are audience tested over the years by Bertram himself. You will find no cute tricks to amuse you momentarily and then forget. You will find no impossible and unusable moves or ideas. What you will find is a vast treasure of experience, talent, and magical entertainment. All the effects are completely illustrated with over 850 photographs and illustrations, the photos taken by Bertram and his wife, Helen. Additionally, the text is easily read and understood. All in all, if you read and study this boo, you will learn more than just tricks: you will learn the art of magic.

Possibly the most important book on sleight of hand in the last 50 years, the chapters found here will treat you to the very finest in coin, card, and general close-up manipulative magic. You will be enthralled by the most extensive examination of the Tenkai palm ever in print and revel in the imagination of a magical genius. And, throughout, you will be taught the true secrets of magic, the secrets that go beyond tricks and into your magical consciousness, the secrets that have made Ross Bertram one of the original stars of magic.

The only modification I would make is, given this book was printed nearly 40 years ago I would have to say that it is now "possibly the most important book on sleight of hand in the last 90 years."

Within the 255 pages of this book there are 850 photographs, at least one on almost every page. Routines, sleights, theory and more have been fit into this volume where Bertram passes a portion of his lifetime of knowledge on to the reader.

The first three chapters are on Coin Magic with over 30 tricks and routines. The fourth chapter is also on coins but with T. Nelson Downs as a contributor and the great coin routines he used, including the Miser's Dream and Coin Star.

Chapter 5 dives into Card Magic with 18 sleights and effects, then Chapters 6 and 7 focus on Palming. The seventh chapter's focus is specifically on the Tenkai Palm, reflecting Bertram's extensive work on the subject.

In Chapter 8, we hear from David Drake as he profiles Bertram in "Interlude with a Craftsman and a Pioneer". Several general magic items are covered in Chapter 9 before getting into the 10th Chapter, The Welcome Mat. Here we get details on the Bertram close up mat and servante, as designed and used by him.

An entire chapter (11) is devoted to 10 "One Hand Cuts". Perhaps this is the "flourishes" section of Bertram's book!

Chapter 12 is a selection of routines from magicians Bertram admires. There are 11 card and coin routines to choose from, each with their own flair and style.

The final chapter on Tips 'N Hints covers a great many things that go towards making a fine technical performer.

This book is full of moves and effects that are audience tested throughout the years by Bertram himself. You will find a vast treasure of experience, talent, and magical entertainment within its pages!

Where to buy?

Last I checked, you should be able to pick up Bertram on Sleight of Hand at Boardwalk Magic. The last price tag I saw for this book was set at $75.00.

Buy at Boardwalk Magic