Official Reviewer
Aug 21, 2023
Overview
Many magicians never heard of the late Robert E. Neale but probably had seen many of his creations. His many admirers included Michael Weber, Larry Hass, Jeff McBride and the late Eugene Burger. Mr. Neale was a master of weaving engaging tales while incorporating optical illusions and topographic manipulation. Basically, he took solid objects such as paper and card stock and through the use of origami, manipulation and storytelling he created unique and puzzling magic that is incomprehensible. One of his most well know discoveries was The Trapdoor Fold which to this day cannot be understood by anyone but a mathematician.Effect
As the performer entertains the table with a short story, he folds a poker sized playing card as he weaves his tale. The card which started out flat in its original form slowly takes on the shape of a well know amphibian, a frog. The frog fully formed starts to jump across the table. The new born frog is left with the audience as a memento of the occasion. Method
The method is a cleverly designed process to create an origami frog that can actually jump. The frog can be folded ahead of time but it makes more impact as it slowly takes shape in front of the spectators. The performer of course has to have or develop the skill set to tell a good, concise and engaging story. Product Quality
Frog Tales is a booklet which measures 8½ “ x 11½” and has 31 actual pages of information. The booklet has more pages but there a several blank, publisher page, table on contents, etc. Included in these 31 pages is the illustrations on how to fold the playing card, some frog facts and five stories which can be told while creating your jumping frog(s). The illustrations are by Earle Oakes and are well done. As well written and illustrated this piece is, the struggle for many may be the ability to weave a story a Neale does. The stories themselves may not suit your personality and some adjustment may be needed.Ad Copy Integrity
The booklet is offering a great value for someone who would like to dip their toe into this type of magic. Final Thoughts
Whether one realizes it or not there are several versions of tricks out there that use optical illusions and topographical manipulation. Just two exmples are The Baffling Boomerangs which makes use of the Jastrow Illusion and The Wonderland Bill makes use of the Trapdoor Fold. To find out more how optical illusions and topography were used in magic take a look at the website called The Horizon of Reason. You will find several E-books on optical illusions in magic. In addition, Robert Neale published several books on his use of topography in magic.
