Sleight of Hand by Edwin Sachs just might be the number one best book ever written on magic. The standard textbook on how to become a magician.
Sleight of hand feats and tricks with apparatus for amateur and profesional conjurers, and for both parlor and stage performance. This is the famous book that for many years has been the ultimate reference for anyone interested in magic by means of sleight of hand. All effects are performed with everyday objects or props that are easy to find: cards, coins, silks, etc. Magic of this kind can be performed anytime, anywhere.
Chapters include:
Chapter I - Palming
Chapter II - Tricks with Coins
Chapter III - Tricks with Common Objects
Chapter IV - Tricks with Cups and Balls
Chapter V - Tricks with Handkerchiefs
Chapter VI - Chinese Tricks
Chapter VII - Tricks at Table
Chapter VIII - Tricks with Cards
Chapter IX - General Remarks
Chapter X - The Table and Dress
Chapter XI - Sleights and Properties for General Use
Chapter XII - Tricks with Cards
Chapter XIII - Tricks with Handkerchiefs and Gloves
Chapter XIV - Tricks with Coins
Chapter XV - Miscellaneous
Chapter XVI - The Cornucopian Hat
Chapter XVII - Tricks with Watches and Live Stock
Chapter XVIII - Sham Mesmerism, Clairvoyance, &c.
Chapter XIX - Some Up-To-Date Tricks
Chapter XX - Final Instructions
Bibliography
Index