Steve Spill is a former child prodigy who grew up to become one of the best comedy magicians on the planet. Over the last 50 years, he’s had a front row seat to the evolution of stand-up and magic in the latter half of the 20th century. Along the way, he’s entertained and amazed everyone from A-listers to African tribespeople, and thereby collected the frequently crazy and funny tales contained in this highly readable and frequently surprising memoir.
This book stands out amongst many other show biz biographies because rather than focusing on the inevitable personal pain behind the art, this is primarily an upbeat journey. Mr. Spill is a superb raconteur, and whether he’s describing a wince-inducing mishap while vanishing a lit cigarette to impress the girls (don’t try this at home!) or poignantly relating why the worth of a 50 cent pack of cards is in the eye (and talent) of the beholder, he has an immediacy and wit to his writing that really draws in the reader
The appeal to magic buffs is a given (especially 11 pages in particular, where he describes the true secrets of a much purloined reputation maker). However, I believe even non-magicians will enjoy getting a backstage peek as to the level of thinking, passion, and commitment it takes to make it in the trenches of live entertainment night after night. Despite the title of the book, Mr. Spill’s personal stories illustrate certain universal truths of the human condition; hence, their great appeal.
In short, Steve Spill’s journey through life thus far makes for entertaining, enlightening reading. It put a smile on my face, and I suspect it will for you as well—and that’s no lie! Highly recommended.
NOTE: Although the subtitle of the book contains the adjective “outrageous”, aside from a few innuendos, Mr. Spill writes in a relatively “clean” style. It’s refreshing to find a funny book that doesn’t need to troll in the gutter for laughs.
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BUY THIS BOOK! Today! Loved it!
If you like magic, magicians, comedy, adventures or nut jobs, you NEED to BUY THIS BOOK!! While I don't know Steve Spill that well, I have been a fan of his work for decades. What fun it is to get inside his head and follow him through the looking glass, down the rabbit hole and into what has been one long strange trip.He's had an interesting career that has spanned a lifetime and taken him through the ups and downs on that roller coaster ride we call life. His life in magic, his dedication as an entertainer, inventor, promotor, writer and nightclub owner are all facinting facets. But when weaved together with his current mindset and narrative, strips back the layers of personality and tells the story as a whole.Interesting man, funny stories, hard to believe experiences and heart. I loved this book and I know you will too! Thank you Mr. Spill for your significant contributions to our art. This book continues to fulfill an already impressive legacy.
