Excellent used condition.
Limited Edition of 500 Copies, Self Published by Michael E. Rose, 1999
Here is a biography on Joe Karson, inventor of the famous Zombie Floating Ball. What many may not know is that Karson also invented many other effects that were praised in his time. Mike Rose has done extensive research on the history of this man and none of the facts are sugar coated. Karson was definitely no boy scout. This fascinating, educational, and many times hilarious biography complete with Karson’s effects is a must have for any serious magician. Here are the facts about a man of magic whose name is known to all, but, until now, whose life story no-one knew. Mention the name Joe Karson. The next word you hear will be Zombie. But, as this book reveals, there is much, much more to learn about the man.
6 x 9 hard bound, gold stamped book, printed on high quality, heavy glossy stock and limited to 500 copies. At 210 pages, the book is divided into two main sections; Karson’s biography and Karson’s creations (books, tricks and commentary). It has 26 photos, most not seen in many years. Besides extensive research in New England public records, several people who knew Karson were also interviewed both magicians and laymen. Some of the well-known magic personalities interviewed were; John Calvert, Jim Cellini, Ray & Ann Goulet, Jay Marshall, Sidney Radner, Nick Ruggiero, Les Smith, Tony Spina, Ben Stone, Parker Swan, and many others. The book also features a Foreword by Lance Burton, one of the most famous “Zombie” workers alive.
The marriages, the divorces, the business ventures, the business failures, the bouts with sickness and alcoholism and the estrangement from family and friends. The one constant is magic: performing, inventing, creating, producing and merchandising. What tricks? Zombie, of course. But also: VooDoo, The Delben Two Hole Wrist Chopper, Charlie The Wonder Snake, Cig-O-Bill, Chinese Pagoda Mystery, Color Changing Foulard and many more. All in all, this is a fascinating and well-researched book. This book belongs on the bookshelf of every magical historian and enthusiast. Illustrated with many never-before-published photographs, featuring a Foreword by Lance Burton.
