Jean Hugard Magic Books: Classic Jean Hugard Magic Titles

Jean Hugard – Magician, Author and Teacher of Magic

Jean Hugard is best known today for his enduring legacy as the author and co-author of some of the most widely studied and respected magic books of the 20th century. Born John Gerard Rodney Boyce in Queensland, Australia, Hugard began his career as a professional magician touring Australia and New Zealand with a full-length evening show. After immigrating to the United States, he performed in vaudeville and gained national attention for his daring version of the bullet catch, billed as “The Great Rifle Feat.” Hugard also portrayed a silent, pseudo-Chinese character, Chin Sun Loo, during a long engagement at Luna Park in Coney Island, where he operated a magic theater for nearly a decade. His theatrical work even extended to Broadway before retiring from public performance. Following his retirement from the stage, Hugard devoted himself entirely to teaching magic and writing. He eventually settled in Brooklyn, New York, where he gave private lessons and began publishing the highly influential Hugard’s Magic Monthly, a periodical packed with professional advice and contributions from other notable magicians of the era.

Hugard is perhaps most revered for his role as a magic book author. He wrote or co-wrote over 30 titles, many of which are still in print and considered foundational texts for students of sleight of hand and close-up magic. Among his best-known works are Modern Magic Manual, Encyclopedia of Card Tricks, and Coin Magic. He collaborated extensively with Frederick Braue on classic volumes such as Expert Card Technique and The Royal Road to Card Magic—books that remain staples for aspiring card magicians. In addition to his own writing, Hugard served as the uncredited ghostwriter for the landmark tome Greater Magic, completing the project after the original author, John Northern Hilliard, passed away unexpectedly. Hugard’s deep knowledge and methodical approach ensured the book’s place as a comprehensive reference in the field of conjuring. Jean Hugard was also honored as the fourth Dean of the Society of American Magicians, recognizing his profound influence on the art. Today, Jean Hugard’s magic books continue to inspire generations of magicians around the world, making his work an essential part of any serious magic library.

Please note, Jean Hugard's complete magic course, the "Modern Magic Manual," with 17 chapters has now been converted to HTML format by Trickshop.com and is available to be studied online by serious magic students. If you have a magic website or blog please feel free to link to these free magic lessons for your readers. The PDF is also available (see below).

SAVE ON ALL THESE GREAT JEAN HUGARD TITLES!

← View all magic PDF categories   |   Files are licensed for personal use only. No resale or re-distribution.