The Encyclopedia of Mentalism and Allied Arts

The blurb for this comprehensive overview of the techniques employed by performers seeking to replicate psychic phenomena for entertainment purposes claims that it is “the first truly great book on the inner secrets of mentalism.” The author, the great Bob Nelson, should know — he penned some sixty books on the subject of mediumistic stunts. After an introduction from Harlan Tarbell, this volume explores the history of mentalism before explaining a host of techniques that can be used in all manner of performing contexts, from promotional shows to one-to-one readings and radio broadcasts. The latter section will be of particular interest to historians, as it includes a full — albeit uncredited — explanation of Dunninger’s act.