Magic cover art

Magic

An Audio Guide

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Magic

By: Robert Ralley
Narrated by: Deidre Rubenstein
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About this listen

 The mysterious art of magic has been a source of wonderment since before the time of Christ. Ranging from the supernatural practices of ‘black’ magic to demonstrations of dazzling illusion, magic has been called on to conjure the evil eye, burn villages to the ground, and slice women in half. From the astrology of the three wise men to David Blaine’s ‘stunts’, Robert Ralley delves into this magical underworld and illuminates the dangerous balance between illusion, fraud, and wickedness that still exists today.©2010 Robert Ralley (P)2012 Bolinda Publishing Anthropology Sociology

Editor reviews

The introduction to this audiobook begins with: "Magic was an accusation long before it was a practice". What follows is Robert Ralley's examination of the history of sorcery, witchcraft, and deception. Ralley acknowledges the controversies in the field, explaining that there is no definition of "magic" that won't meet some resistance. The audiobook addresses these debates and, in doing so, engages the listener in the age-old conversation about what constitutes magic. Deidre Rubenstein's voice is steady and trustworthy. The listener is captivated by the mysteries and legends presented herein.

Critic reviews

“An important contribution. Ralley demonstrates an enviable depth and breadth of occult knowledge.” (Dave Green, Senior Lecturer in Sociology, University of the West of England, and Co-Director of The Society for the Academic Study of Magic)
"An essential introduction. It skilfully teases apart the dark and twisted strands of magic and its practices." (Barry Jones and Stuart McLeod – winners of the “Best Comedy Illusionist” award at the World Magic Awards 2009 and hosts of When Magic Tricks Go Wrong)
“A solid overview of a very complex subject.” (Michael A. Ryan, Assistant Professor of European and Late Medieval History, Purdue University)
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