Houdini: World’s greatest mystery man and escape king

Bibliography

Krull, Kathleen. 2005. Houdini: World’s greatest mystery man and escape king. Ill. by Eric Velasquez. New York: Walker & Company. ISBN 0802789536

Plot Summary

This brief biography of Houdini shows his determination to become the greatest magician of his time. Houdini sought fame from a young age and actively pursued his dream through practice, physical training, and reading every magic book he could find. Five of Houdini’s greatest escapes are featured.

Critical Analysis

Beginning with a dramatic description of The Milk Can Escape, this biography weaves details of Houdini’s death-defying escapes through the description of his life. Throughout the book, Krull emphasizes Houdini’s determination, the training he underwent to master his stunts, and the importance of the books that he used to learn magic. Velasquez’s oil paintings capture the feel of the period and the theatrical showmanship. The illustration of the featured escapes is effective with a series of pictures of the escape from begin to end, and a master of ceremonies to clue the reader into the change from the narrative of the biography. A bibliography and list of websites provides sources for further investigation into the life of this mysterious man.

Review Excerpts

School Library Journal: “Framed descriptions of some of Houdini's most famous stunts are interspersed within the overview of his life. The author's crisp narrative style and careful choice of detail are evident here. Readers get a sense of Houdini's commitment, determination, and dedication to his family. His belief in hard work, self-education, and the value of books is emphasized.”

Kirkus Reviews: “Houdini left swaths of his past and his techniques shrouded in mystery--but here veteran biographer Krull peeks behind the curtain for glimpses of his life, his feats and his character... Budding magicians won't find more than hints here of how Houdini did it, but a tempting set of print and digital resources caps this perceptive and dramatic tribute.”

Connections

* Teach children a few beginning card tricks and provide books to learn more.

* Watch performances of contemporary illusionists performing variations of Houdini’s classic stunts.

Historical Fiction featuring Houdini:

Selznick, Brian. 2008. The Houdini Box. New York: Atheneum. ISBN 1416968784