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3.86 AVERAGE
3.86 AVERAGE
Oh man. I knew nothing about Houdini before this book except for his name and that he escaped chains and water chambers, but there are so many more fascinating details. The man himself had such an unyielding personality and inspired true wonder in all who met him. The book also reads like a fun conversation with Joe and the people he interviews. Now I'd really like to go to Scranton, PA to the Houdini museum.
The Life and Afterlife of Harry Houdini by Joe Posnanski is a free NetGalley ebook that I read in mid-November.
The largesse of fame and the entrance of Houdini into parlance vocabulary as told by the author and people who are obsessed with him (sometimes fellow magicians and illusionists) twinned with a loose, scattered biography told in a hyper, ballyhoo narrative.
The largesse of fame and the entrance of Houdini into parlance vocabulary as told by the author and people who are obsessed with him (sometimes fellow magicians and illusionists) twinned with a loose, scattered biography told in a hyper, ballyhoo narrative.
Book club pick. I didn't find it interesting. Too many details and repetitive.
informative
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
3 Stars = Don't regret reading it.
I enjoyed the book, but when trying to figure out why I enjoyed it, I falter ... lol So, I'll just tell you right up front, I'm a Houdini fan. I've read every book about him that I could get my hands on. Houdini fan enjoys yet another Houdini book ... duh!
I enjoyed the book, but when trying to figure out why I enjoyed it, I falter ... lol So, I'll just tell you right up front, I'm a Houdini fan. I've read every book about him that I could get my hands on. Houdini fan enjoys yet another Houdini book ... duh!
informative
mysterious
slow-paced
reflective
slow-paced
Joe Posnanski's "The Life and Afterlife of Harry Houdini" offered a surprising twist on the traditional biography. While it explored Houdini's life, it truly captivated me by delving into his lasting impact. The book weaves a narrative that journeys through Houdini's legacy, showcasing how he ignited the flames of magic in countless others - from iconic figures like Penn & Teller and David Copperfield to unexpected names like Epic Rap Battles of History. This isn't a manual revealing Houdini's secrets, but rather a vibrant homage to the magic he brought to the world.
Posnanski paints a nuanced portrait of Houdini, revealing a man driven by both ego and a deep love for his family and heritage. While I, as a magic enthusiast, wasn't entirely unfamiliar with his work, the book's exploration of his most daring escapes kept me on the edge of my seat. It was also fascinating to learn about the elaborately fabricated elements of Houdini's life story, a testament to his showmanship. Houdini's complex character shines through, alongside Posnanski's clear admiration for this legendary magician.
Posnanski paints a nuanced portrait of Houdini, revealing a man driven by both ego and a deep love for his family and heritage. While I, as a magic enthusiast, wasn't entirely unfamiliar with his work, the book's exploration of his most daring escapes kept me on the edge of my seat. It was also fascinating to learn about the elaborately fabricated elements of Houdini's life story, a testament to his showmanship. Houdini's complex character shines through, alongside Posnanski's clear admiration for this legendary magician.
This year I have been focusing on reading books with strong womxn on womxn content. In order to reinvigorate the eroticism of the books that I want to read, I decided to mix it up and read something with strong male ego vibes. This book was O.K. One unexpected and memorable stand out is reading about Dorothy Dietrich, a feminist magician who was the first person to saw a man in half in her magic act on television! Also, there are at least four typos in the first edition text.
informative
slow-paced