Real magic : Tips, tricks, TikTok and totally good vibes by Ash Magic

There’s a contradiction in this book purporting to be about “real” magic.  How can this be, when TikTok sensation Ash Magic unpacks his success at sleight of hand, illusions and cardistry? By default, tricks cannot be the “real” magic to which he is alluding.

Ash shares a number of tricks behind illusions copied from some of his favourite magicians, and from busking with his friend and fellow magician, Lucas.  Tricks include: Pick a card - any card, Phone Money, Disappearing Box, Buzzy Surprize, The Magical Orb and Levitation. Put these into practice and you’ll become the local magician.

So where is the ‘real’ magic?  Part autobiography, part self-help, part social media primer, Real Magic is full of firsthand tips, advice and social media skills.  Ash Magic shares the strategies that helped him overcome his anxiety, ADHD and other personal challenges to become a popular stage performer. It gets better because Ash writes about his strategies of self-promotion at all levels, including expanding his reach to millions of followers on TikTok.

Ash’s blend of magic, philosophy, positivity and magic can help any young person struggling with anxiety, to become an outgoing and successful member of society. Further, he demonstrates through his own recollections, the successful habits that launched his career as a busker, a performer and later an internet sensation.  

Some of his good-vibes mindset philosophy is really about reinventing yourself with positive thinking and THAT is the real magic to which Ash refers. To beat anxiety he starts with: breathing tips, faking his body image and confidence, moving and energizing to get his blood pumping, supporting and accepting everyone, not dwelling on failure, being himself and reaching out to friends and professionals if all else fails.

Real Magic contains never-before-seen photos, anecdotes and insights from Ash's childhood and adolescence. Students and young adults of all ages wanting to improve their mindset, conquer crippling anxiety or build confidence will be delighted by his many practical strategies and habits of mind. Learning a magician’s secrets to astound your friends is a bonus. 

Themes: Magicians, Magic, Card Tricks, Self- Help, Personal Development, Psychology, Positive Thinking, Anxiety, ADHD.

Deborah Robins