Review: How to Create Kid's Magic And Triple Your Income by John Breeds

Have you prepared your routines and now feel ready to entertain kids at parties and other functions? And, in particular, do you want to make money at it?

For this, John Breeds' "How to Create Kid's Magic And Triple Your Income" (MSRP: $45.00, Murphy’s) is must reading. Within its 200 pages, you'll discover a powerful and informative overview about performing magic for children as well as handling the business end.

The first chapters are devoted to business. Here, Breed talks about working phones, promotional devices to promote shows, advertising and more. It’s one of the strongest treatments of the topic that I’ve seen and the information is spot on.

Other chapters discuss sound systems, microphones, backdrops, lighting and magic tables. And then, there are the magic routines - a lot of kid-worthy magic effects and routines that you can add to your show. I particularly liked Breed's "Visual Painting" prop and routine. And because Breed is a British magician, he also teaches games, which are often a part of entertaining at kid's parties in the UK.

As I read the book, I found myself constantly agreeing. And I gleaned a few ideas that I may put to use. Keep in mind that when it comes to business advice, there's lots of work involved on your part to make the venture a success. The book provides great business information, but if you're looking for a magical silver bullet, you won't find it here or anyplace else.

I also enjoyed reading the creative and entertaining routines. If you're ramping up to be a part of the kids entertainment business, you'll find that Breed’s book can give you a running start. And experienced performers may learn a thing or two as well.