The World’s Best Book of Magic

 

by Walter B. Gibson

Title: The World’s Best Book of Magic
Author: Walter B. Gibson
Publisher: The Penn Publishing Company, Philadelphia
Publication Date: 1927
Binding: Hardcover (clothbound)
Pages: Approx. 319 pages 

Dimensions: Approx. 8" x 5.5" x 1.5"
Illustrations: Includes black-and-white plates (e.g., frontispiece of the Indian Rope Trick as presented by Howard Thurston)

 

Description:

This is a first edition copy of The World’s Best Book of Magic by the legendary Walter B. Gibson, famed creator of The Shadow and prolific contributor to 20th-century magical literature. Published in 1927 by The Penn Publishing Company, this volume is a substantial and authoritative reference, showcasing a wide range of magical effects—from classic stage illusions to sleight-of-hand and mentalism.

Bound in rich maroon cloth with gold-stamped title and author on the front cover within a gilt-ruled box, this vintage hardcover evokes the golden age of conjuring literature. The opening spread features an iconic image of The Indian Rope Trick, presented by Howard Thurston, one of the era’s most renowned illusionists.

 

Condition:

• Cover: Structurally sound with some edge and spine wear typical of age. Minor fraying visible at the spine head and corner tips. Slight discoloration or rubbing on the bottom spine corner.
• Binding: Tight and intact, no separation of pages noted.
• Pages: Toned with age but generally clean. Some minor foxing visible on the title page and edges of interior pages.
• Edges: Uniformly age-toned; top edge darker due to exposure.
• Interior: Appears complete. Includes original photographic plate facing title page. No markings, writing, or tears observed.

 

Notes:

This book is a classic collector’s piece for magicians, historians, or enthusiasts of vintage magical literature. Gibson’s writings have influenced generations of performers and authors, and this early title remains a cornerstone in the library of serious conjuring students.

Perfect for display, reference, or research—this volume captures a unique era of theatrical magic and is a testament to Gibson’s legacy.