The Magic of Johnny Thompson

One of the most sought after two-book collections has finally been reprinted.

Back in 2018, Jamy Ian Swiss and Magicana collaborated on the release of The Magic of Johnny Thompson. This remarkable two-book set was one of the most anticipated book releases of all time, offering an exclusive look at the life and legacy of one of magic’s most revered performers and creators. Both printings quickly sold out and it has since been one of the most desired books by magicians and collectors alike.

«We have been fans of Johnny Thompson for more than forty years. He has helped create and refine virtually every branch of our stage and television work.»
– Penn & Teller

After Johnny passed in 2019, many feared that the book would never be available again. But, thanks to Vanishing Inc., magicians and collectors around the world can now enjoy this groundbreaking collection once again. As part of its purchase of Magicana’s publishing business, Vanishing Inc. acquired the rights to re-print some of magic’s most beloved texts-including The Magic of Johnny Thompson.

Johnny Thompson was (and still is) one of the most respected minds in magic. His distinguished, decades-long career covered all facets of magic from being a pioneer of trade show performances to dazzling audiences as a bamboozling bar magician, astounding illusionist, and even a mesmerizing mentalist. Undoubtedly, his biggest claim to fame can be attributed to his larger-than-life stage persona, The Great Tomsoni & Co.-as well as the impact he had on TV magic as one of the most revered magic consultants in the latter stages of his life. Put simply, Johnny Thompson did it all.

Writing a book of this magnitude is no easy task. Which is why there was no better person suited for the challenge than master magician and renowned author Jamy Ian Swiss. Throughout the nearly 700 pages of The Magic of Johnny Thompson, Jamy meticulously details the real secrets behind seventy-eight of Johnny’s most cherished and celebrated routines; including The Cups & Balls, The Balls in the Net, The Egg Bag and The Gambler’s Ballad.

You’ll also get to enjoy previously unpublished material from some of Johnny’s most esteemed colleagues and mentors like Dai Vernon, Ed Marlo, and Harry Riser. There are even extended chapters devoted to the close-up magic of Charlie Miller and Max Malini. Additionally, The Magic of Johnny Thompson tips the full work behind The Great Tomsoni & Co.’s legendary dove and silk magic, including a thorough essay on the development of a dove act. If you enjoy this level of detail, you’re also going to absolutely love the complete exploration of Johnny Thompsons Trade Show Act, which includes his impossible $100 Dollar Prediction and even a full script.

All of this, and more, is neatly packed inside this handsome two-volume, slipcase set. There are over 660 pages, and nearly 1,100 photographs, across both books. The forewords and introductions are also some of the most impressive you’ll ever see, including thoughts from Jamy Ian Swiss, Teller, Lance Burton, and Levent.

The Magic of Johnny Thompson is everything you’d expect-and so much more-from one of magic’s most respected luminaries. As the premiere publisher of magic books, Vanishing Inc. has given great care to ensuring it was reproduced with the same exceptional quality you expect from both them and Magicana. This is destined to be a standout in your library and is the type of book set you’ll find yourself returning to often for years to come. Get your copy now before they sell out again!

The Magic of Johnny Thompson Details

• Two hardcover books
• Slip cased set
• 12.5″ x 9.25″ x 2.75″ (31.75 x 23.5 x 7 cm)
• 78 routines
• 663 pages
• Both classic and unpublished material included
• Nearly 1,100 photographs
• Authored by Jamy Ian Swiss
• Printed by Vanishing Inc.

Please Note: The material in this second addition is identical to the first edition. The only changes are that this second version is not signed, and the spine is now adorned with the signature Vanishing Inc. logo.