Get started creating your own magic book to sell

You probably already have everything you need

Back Cover Sample

When commissioning a Learn Magic instant author kit, I'll need a few things from you to customize it and make it your own. You probably already have them, so it should be pretty easy.

I use Dropbox to transfer and store your files so you'll have access to them also. When our project is begun, I'll set up a folder and send you an invitation link so you can use it to send me files. There is plenty of storage space (about 1tb), so send the largest files you have.

Of course I'll need your contact info. Website link and phone number are usually all that's needed, sometimes not even the phone number. Email address also if you don't have a contact form on your site.

A hi-resolution (300dpi) logo is very helpful, especially on the front cover. If you don't have a logo, you're in luck. I love designing logos! When you purchase my instant author kit, I will create a logo for you at a reduced rate. See elsewhere in this blog where I created a logo for Kyle Groves and the Party People Magic Theater. You can also check out my portfolio to see samples of other logos I've designed. 

As you can see in the photo of the back cover, the third paragraph is a short bio highlighting your main "selling points". Keep it short and simple, no need to include many details. I can edit it to fit in the space.

Phil Ackerly's Magic You Can Do - Customization Project

Just finished customizing Phil Ackerly's book

click to embiggen

Phil Ackerly, from the San Francisco Bay Area in California, is ready to start selling his customized magic book to increase his show income. Phil has been voted the Bay Area’s best entertainer 5 times... pretty impressive! His site is www.MakePhilAppear.com, a pretty clever name for a magician's website.

He had very distinct ideas about how he wanted his book designed, and I was able to make it all happen. When I work with you to customize your book, I make sure it's just what you want.

His book is now available online, check it out at www.CreateSpace.com/7330454

In the process, Phil's attention to detail highlighted a few things that I updated in the main template, including an opening welcome page. Click below to see it...

Instant Author Kit - New & Improved!

You can be an author and not write a word!

One of the ten new cover designs available.

For years I've been selling my Learn Magic instant author kit. Up until now it's been a series of PDF files that the purchaser then edits themselves with their contact info, name, photos, etc. It's been well received critically...

This is without a doubt the BEST back of room sales book I have ever come across. What makes this so great is that you get SO many options to customize it. This is a no-brainer if you want to have a personalized magic product to sell after your show.
Paul Romhany, editor Vanish Magazine.
Review page 190
October/November 2013 issue.
VanishMagazine.com

But it hasn't sold nearly as many as I first expected. I got to thinking, how could I make this more appealing. Why are people hesitant to buy? Then I realized...

Customization project for Kyle Groves

Learn Magic with the Party People!

From Kyle Groves theater in Colorado.

I just finished customizing a Learn Magic book for Kyle Groves, it will be available on Amazon in a day or two. He also needed a logo. I enjoy designing logos.

UPDATE! The stores are live now...

CreateSpace

Amazon

Kyle and his father "Mr. E", run a really nice little theater in Pueblo, Colorado. It's a great idea for an event facility. Check it out... www.ColoradoMagician.com

He wanted a logo that was classy and fun. Kyle sent a lot of photos to me via DropBox. I was looking thru them getting ideas when I saw this photo.

That was a big help. I quickly came up with this logo...

Teach Magic - Get Routine

Developing a routine by teaching a trick.

I've been teaching beginner magic classes for many years, even before I started teaching with Circus Camp in 1992. I've compiled many of those tricks and other bits in my book Learn Magic with Mister Greggy. It's also an instant author system which I've been updating.

I really enjoy teaching, and I'm getting pretty good at it. One of the things I've noticed is I develop simple routines with each trick I teach, so I can use those tricks when I do strolling work (since they are all close-up).

The latest trick I've been teaching, not included in the book, it a ring climbing up a rubber-band. Very simple in technique, most kids 7 and older can do it after just a bit of practice.

When I first demonstrate the trick I do a short routine so they know what trick I'm teaching. I don't have a video of my actual routine, but here's a kid online demonstrating the trick so you have a better idea what I'm talking about.

 

TAGSmagic channel on Youtube

Balloons, balloons, more balloons!

GREAT Idea for a balloon gag!

I joined many magicians and entertainers groups on Facebook, tons of interesting information. Just today I saw a great idea for a gag by Paul Kitchen from Kingston upon Hull in England. The Facebook group is Trix in the Stix, based in the UK.

Here's a short video of Paul's idea: I don't know why there is no sound.

Video critiques, baby raccoons, and hoops of fire

Video Critiques

Sometimes I hear somebody say they hate watching their acts on video. Never understood why. If you're going to develop a good act, you have to know what the audience is seeing. Doing the act alone in your room in front of the mirror will only get you so far.

If I had the opportunity to hire a Broadway director to watch my show and make it better, I would jump at the chance. Hopefully there are others who feel the same way. However, since I don't know any Broadway directors, I'd like to start a Facebook page where people agree to give honest friendly critiques of other videos and their own. We would all then post videos and other members would add their comments.

I remember years ago at the monthly magic meetings when a magician would present a routine they're working on and everybody would say how great it was. Even if it wasn't. Even if it was horrible. Even when the performer asked for critique. Nothing but congratulations. Such a missed opportunity to improve and learn from others, many of whom are professionals with years more experience.

We have office spaces available for rent!

Circus Camp Workshop Space... looking promising!

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UPDATE (06-02-2017): Sad to report, we were not able to lease the building. While in the process of finalizing the paperwork, somebody swooped in and purchased the entire building. Bummer.

HOWEVER... We are still looking for a workshop/warehouse space! Very interested in sharing and/or subleasing. Contact me for details.
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One of my favorite things to do is create stuff. Web sites, posters, logos, comedy routines, magician tables, props, backdrops, comic strips, etc etc. I even enjoy building things that don't actually exist in the real world because they only exist in the virtual world Second Life. Since I'm working with Circus Camp basically full time now, many of the projects are for our summer camps and other classes.

However, having a place to build has always been an issue. I have been looking for a space over the last few years. Our ultimate goal is to find a permanent location for Circus Camp so we can teach year-round classes under the name Circus Campus (I already bought the domain name). But for now, a workshop space is much needed, around 800 - 1200 square feet.

Well, I found a great spot in Chamblee near 285, 85, P'tree Ind, and Buford Hwy. Easy to drive to and an easy bike ride from the Chamblee Marta Station. It's plenty big enough for the many many projects I have waiting in the wings.

Plus, there are 4 small office spaces available that we will be renting out... with lots of perks!

Click below for a floor plan of the spaces and how you can rent them...