News from Charlie

Marshall tells us that people keep asking what we’re up to, so he’s asked us to tell you via the blog.  Although Richard’s moved off to Utah, I’m still here in Houston, and I’m still working on publishing new books under the H&R banner.  Currently, my focus is on the new Nick Trost book (Vol. 3) and the FFFF book.  With Marshall taking over the day to day running of the business, I get more time to catch up on other stuff I haven’t had time to do the last few years.  I’ve even had time to completely read some of the new magic books! I just finished the new Sleights of Mind book, which was a lot of fun in-depth science mixed in with a bunch of guys we know. I didn’t agree with everything in the book, but I did find the whole thing very thought-provoking. It’s always kind of neat to see what outsiders (in this case, “former” outsiders) think of magic.

I’m also reading Roberto Giobbi’s Secret Agenda.  It’s quite enlightening to only read a page or two a day -- giving you plenty of time to think about what’s being said.  Gary Plants and I shared the rubber band powers of darkness trick with some friends, and it went over very well.  

I also just finished the new issue of Magic magazine and really enjoyed Adam Rubin’s article on Mark Setteducati. Mark’s a very fascinating guy who’s been able to turn his creativity into a great career. I remember Mark pushing Mel Stover around in his wheelchair and thinking, "there are two creative geniuses."  Finally, just got the new catalog from Gabe Fajuri for the new Potter & Potter auction.  Besides some really cool gambling apparatus you’ll find a few books from us! That’s all for now.

----Charlie

Finally- A Permanent Location

The past weekend was spent moving the shop from the temporary location in Vidor, to the permanent location in Beaumont. This will be the last move for awhile, at least I hope so. Half of the inventory is still in boxes, so things are still moving a little slow. The hope is to be completely moved in by this weekend. Here's to hoping!!! I've been reading the most recent Gibeciere. I enjoyed the first article on the reporter Nellie Bly. Bly was a skeptic and the first female investigative reporter. Hell bent on exposing fraudulent mediums, Miss Bly had a keen intellect which allowed her to solve the mysteries she observed. She was not afraid of confrontation, and her stories of altercations with "mind readers," make for an entertaining read.  I have to admit that this is my first experience with Gibeciere. I am hooked. Highly recommended.

Welcome to the H & R Magic Blog

If you are reading this, I can assume one of two things. Either you enjoy reading about magic, or you stumbled upon the page by accident. If you enjoy reading about magic, then you are in for a treat. The blog contributors will be myself, Richard Hatch and Charlie Randall. You can expect all kinds of updates here, as we plan to cover reviews, magic news, sales, announcements, and whatever else may come to mind. So, sit back, add us to your reading schedule, and enjoy the ride.

P.S. - For those who stumbled upon this page by accident, you are more than welcome to read along as well. Although, you may find yourself lost at some points along the way. If you are interested, I have a couple of books that might help you understand this blog a little better. :)  


Marshall