13 Steps to Mentalism

Mind-reading acts performed on stage have always held a certain allure for me. The sheer ability to captivate an audience, leaving them spellbound with seemingly inexplicable feats of mentalism, is a skill I have long admired. So, when I picked up *13 Steps to Mentalism*, I was driven by a singular goal: to uncover the secrets behind these astonishing tricks and, perhaps, learn how to perform them myself.Written by Tony Corinda, this book is considered a foundational text for anyone venturing into the world of mentalism. And for good reason—it is an encyclopedic treasure trove of knowledge. The book methodically breaks down techniques, from telepathy to muscle reading, and from mnemonics to predictions. Each "step" offers rich insights and practical explanations that make you feel as if you're peeling back the curtain on a world that’s usually shrouded in mystery.I immersed myself in its teachings and found every chapter to be a fascinating glimpse into the art and science of mentalism. The writing is clear and engaging, which made the complex concepts feel accessible to a beginner like me. I especially appreciated how Corinda doesn't just focus on the "how" of the tricks but also delves into the psychology behind them—what makes them work and, crucially, why they fool even the most discerning spectators.However, my personal journey with this book was bittersweet. Unfortunately, I live with motor neuron disease, a condition that, while it does not diminish my passion for learning, restricts my physical endurance. The motor skills and repetitive practice required to master these mentalism techniques quickly became too exhausting for me. As much as I enjoyed the education and the deep dive into this captivating art form, the realization that I would not be able to put theory into practice felt like my dreams of becoming a mentalist were dashed on the rocks below.But that is *my* challenge, not yours. *13 Steps to Mentalism* remains an exceptional guide, one that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone eager to explore the world of mentalism. Whether you're an aspiring performer or simply curious about the secrets of the trade, this book will open your mind and spark your imagination.For me, it was still a rewarding read—one that deepened my appreciation for the craft, even if my own stage debut may remain forever a dream. If your circumstances allow you to pursue the art of mentalism, this book will be the perfect starting point on your journey.

This is from ellusionist.com"This book has long been considered the "Bible" for mentalism methods and effects. What Expert at the Card Table is to cards, this book is to mentalism. 13 chapters devoted to the various methods used by today's top mentalists and performers."Nobody knew where Tony Corinda came from, but everyone knew he was here. Today, known throughout the world, Corinda has been acclaimed as inventor, writer and teacher of Mentalism, the art of mind reading. While on tour in America, his friends persuaded him to write a book and with the support of nearly every professional mentalist in the world, Corinda set out to compile the 13 Steps to Mentalism.After two years the series was published. Corinda succeeded in producing what has become the only real encyclopedia of mental magic. For this, he has received many honors, including recognition from the Magic Circle who awarded him membership to the Inner Circle with a Gold Star, a highly prestigious award." (from the inside cover)"1. The Swami-Gimmick - This gimmick makes it possible to make written predictions. Explained are the various types of gimmicks which exist, their uses and their applications (24 effects).2. Pencil, Lip, Sound, Touch, and Muscle Reading - Thanks to movements that most of us aren't aware of making, you can learn to perform incredible effects.3. Mnemonics and Mental Systems - To the mentalist, properly used memory systems are indispensable. You can give incredible demonstrations any time.4. Predictions - This chapter describes the basic techniques used with swami gimmick and other items to make seemingly impossible predictions.5. Blindfolds and X-Ray Eyes - Blindfolds can turn ordinary stunts into incredible performances. Learn how to use them to your advantage.6. Billets - Learn switches, tears, retentions and peeks - and put them to good use.7. Book Tests - Use books in a routine that seems impossible.8. Two Person Telepathy - Use these methods to create a two person mentalism act.9. Mediumistic Stunts - Things which seem to be more than they really are.10. Card Tricks - Mentalism with cards.11. Question and Answer (Readings) - Learn the basics of Cold Reading.12. Publicity Stunts - How to gain publicity.13. Patter and Presentation - Methods which will help the presentation of your mentalism effects.

Good book. Dated but useful.

This book should be required reading for any performer who wants to do or already does mentalism. 13 Steps is the foundation for just about every mentalism routine still being performed and the savvy mentalist will refer to it time and again to build on the foundation set by this book. Certainly, the ideas and concepts could be viewed as dated, but it is as relevant as The Tarbell course is for magicians; maybe not "new" but important information to know and frankly, easy to adapt for more modern audiences and approaches.Ask any pro mentalist working today of what books influenced them and 13 Steps will be listed along with the books by Theo Annemann. For a while, this book was not easy to find, but now that it has been reprinted, snatch it up. Also, I do not recommend getting a scanned copy (some are available here and there) but obtain the printed version. Much easier to study, mark up and actually use. Think of this book as required reading for a mentalist and a text book that you will reference time and again after the initial read through.

Mentalism fascinates me. With shows like "The Mentalist" on TV I became interested in learning how these tricks were done. This book has proven to be a valuable resource. The information is very thorough and I enjoy reading it.My only complaint is that I do not like the font size or the layout of the book. The font is too small for my liking and I would have liked an index to better locate the information I am looking for. Still, if you want to know how to be a mentalist, or simply to know how the tricks are being done, this is a great resource.

It is very old school, but just leafing through the pages makes me happy, as there is a lot of information that can help learn new tricks :)