Magic Coloring Book

Type: Close-up, Parlor, Stage

Skill Level:

Retail Price: $10

Effect: A coloring book is shown to have all blank pages. When the pages are flipped a second time the outlines of pictures appear. When the pages are flipped a third time all the pictures are colored.

Performance Time: one to five minutes depending on your presentation

Reset Time: None

Angles:

Quality: The pages of the Magic Coloring Book are sturdier than the pages of a regular coloring book but they are paper and will rip and soil. The gimmick is foolproof.

Mike Maione: Everyone who does kid's parties has a Magic Coloring Book somewhere because it's very easy to perform, inexpensive and takes up virtually no space in your case. But, that's the problem with it. Since its so popular, you can count on someone in your audience having seen this prop before. Still I like it and use it Only, I reserve it for the five and under set. Add some disappearing crayons to build a routine. You can also buy the ungaffed blank book which you can switch and hand out for examination. When you perform with it, don't be surprized if you get some "oohs" from the adults in the crowd. The gimmick although extremely simple is not obvious to anyone who hasn't handled the book.

Dr. Mitch: Ok....from the strictest amateur to the most seasoned professional, if you entertain children this is a must. When I do performance reviews, my main criticism is that everyone performs the same effects, the same way. Be creative. People who are creative in their presentation do not hear the shouts of "I know that" or "I've seen that". Here are some ideas....buy the blank "dummy" book...it can be handed out for examination. Use vanishing crayons. I have seen one performer dress the birthday girl up as an artist...smock, beret and paint brush and have her "paint" in the colors. This is a staple in a kid show....don't be bland about it.

M&M Magic Review © 1997