Ever wondered why there isn't a book on Derren's material?

Source: Sab (found it on internet and emailed it in)
True source: alt.psychology.nlp
Uploaded: 10 Nov 2002

I don't think there is a beginners book(or any other book) on Mentalism that teaches Derren Brown type things -the type of effects that are shown in the Mind Control series are a blend of various practices OUTSIDE of what the vast majority of mentalists do. I think you'd be led along the wrong path by looking solely along the lines of 'Mentalism' .

According to his site there is a book in the works on the series. But whether this would help to learn these type of effects, any more than what is given away in the series itself, I strongly doubt? but who knows? Of your mentioned books I'd recommend Banachek's book as the closest amongst those. Practical Mental Magic and 13 steps are considered classics (much longer books), but these are so dated and if you would expect to do Derren Brown style effects direct from these(and that goes for other books on Mentalism) you would only be disappointed.

Pure effect is great, if youre looking at card magic routines and are already proficient , otherwise it really covers practically nothing not mentioned at www.channel4.com/mindcontrol (the few verbal and gestural forces,etc.). I wouldnt recommend it for- nor is it about - what you're interested in.

Perhaps some useful books that spring to mind are: Books by James Randi. http://www.randi.org Cold reading. The Full Facts Book of Cold Reading - Ian Rowland Never Be Lied to Again - David Lieberman Books by Kreskin. Secrets of the Amazing Kreskin Books by Ormond McGill stage hypnosis with a psychic slant. The New encyclopedia of stage hypnotism' 'Magic & Showmanship - by Henning Nelms Photo-reading whole mind system. - Scheele.

(Not part of the article, but recommended by Sab): Magic & Showmanship - by Henning Nelms