Unearth a Treasure Trove of Practical Magic

'Chap's Scrapbook' by Franklin M. Chapman isn't just another magic journal; it's a legendary collection, hailed by none other than master magician Gaetan Bloom as his personal favorite. Originally published over two years in 24 monthly issues, this digital download compiles a wealth of practical and ingenious material, primarily focusing on close-up, club, and pocket magic that's designed to truly entertain.

The Vision of an Amateur Enthusiast

Frank Chapman, a dedicated amateur magician and editor, poured his passion into 'Chap's Scrapbook.' His philosophy was simple yet profound: to deliver exceptional value and practical content. As he stated in the inaugural issue, he wasn't seeking 'the last word in magic,' but rather a quality sheet offering solid, workable effects. Chapman rigorously curated each issue, asking himself if he would be 'satisfied if he had paid a dollar for it,' promising double the value to his readers. This commitment to excellence ensures that every page is filled with material that magicians can genuinely use to captivate audiences.

Originality and Esteemed Contributions

While many of the brilliant effects and ideas spring from Chapman's own private scrapbooks – fresh and new to his readership – 'Chap's Scrapbook' also features exclusive contributions from other giants of magic. You'll find gems from luminaries like the innovative Charlie Miller and the legendary Nate Leipzig, among others. These aren't mere 'fillers' but carefully selected pieces that met Chapman's high personal standards, with originators fairly reimbursed. This blend of Chapman's original thinking and contributions from revered peers creates a rich, diverse, and incredibly valuable resource for any magician.

Your Guide to Engaging Performance

With a keen eye on the demands of the time, Chapman specifically tailored 'Chap's Scrapbook' to serve the thriving field of bar (pocket) magic and small club effects. This collection is your guide to mastering intimate, high-impact magic that resonates with modern audiences. Whether you're a seasoned professional looking for fresh material or an aspiring enthusiast building your repertoire, this complete digital compendium of 'Chap's Scrapbook' offers timeless wisdom and practical routines that will elevate your performances and inspire your creativity.

Original Specs

This is the favorite 'book' of Gaetan Bloom. This monthly magic journal only ran for two years (24 issues) but it is filled with wonderful ideas largely on close-up magic. Although most of the effects described are from Frank Chapman, there are a few contributions from people like Charlie Miller, Nate Leipzig, etc.

To give you a sense of what Frank had in mind, here an excerpt from the first issue:

Magic is my hobby ... It has been my hobby for over twenty-five years ... I am not a professional magician ... This may be questioned because I occasionally entertain for a fee ... I do this for two reasons ... To keep my hobby self-supporting ... and to play fair with those who derive a livelihood from magic ... My fee is considered high ... I keep it high for two reasons ... Because I can get it (so can you) - and because it places my performance on a higher plane (and it will yours) ... And so you understand ... at the start ... that I am an amateur magician ... and an amateur editor ... and that "Scrapbook" is not a "last word in magic" ... by any stretchy of the imagination ... It is simply this ... A monthly publication devoted, primarily, to club and pocket magic ... Many of the effects will be taken from my private scrapbooks ... They will be new to you ... I sincerely believe that you will find them valuable ... I know that they are practical ... In addition to these effects ... you will receive, from time to time, the ideas of others ... Not "fillers", understand; but exclusive material that meets my personal standard of judgement ... and for which I will have reimbursed the originator ... I shall ask myself this question before each issue leaves my hands: "Would you be satisfied with this issue of 'Scrapbook' if you had paid a dollar for it?" ... I will never fail to answer that question fairly ... I want "Scrapbook" to be worth at least double what you pay for it ... And I will welcome your opinion of each issue.... It may inspire me to dig a little deeper should the "going get easy" ... Wherever an effect calls for the use of a special gimmick I will supply that gimmick with the issue - providing the cost is not excessive ... This, naturally, you will understand ... As for inter-journalistic, and private, squabbles ... I am not interested ... The "scrap" in "Scrapbook" is not to be taken in any suoh sense ... Those who seek such literary fisticuffs ... had best look elsewhere ... I can find better use for my time ... And, I believe, yours ... It is my intention to keep "Scrapbook" a quality sheet ... Not a "high hat" sheet, mind you ... A quality sheet ... I promise no definite number of tricks to the issue ... One month you may receive four or five ... the next month two ... But in every instance ... you will receive double value for your money ... I am not out to "live" on "Scrapbook" ... I want it to pay its way ... And, I hope, show a small profit ... If it grows beyond expectations I shall reduce the subscription rate ... and see that my original subscribers are rewarded for the confidence placed in me ... One thing more ... and then we will "get to the meat" ... Today - there is a great demand for bar (pocket) magic and small club effects ... This is the field that "Scrapbook" intends to serve .

#Charlie Miller

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