Sleightly Absurd by Charlie Frye

A captivating and inspiring journey through the ingenious mind of Charlie Frye.

This stunning nearly 300-page deluxe oversize hardcover book perfectly captures the spirit of one of the hardest-working entertainers in the business. Charlie Frye has spent more than four decades performing on stages across six continents, and Sleightly Absurd contains more than 50 of his most cherished hard-won secrets.

Charlie has not been one to often share his beloved brainchildren. Which is why it is such a special treat to have one book overflowing with his quirky one-of-a-kind musings and miracles. You’ll get a truly exclusive look into the ins and outs of this incomparable prestidigitator.

There are high-class feats for all types of conjurers. Musings with coins and cards that are both ordinary and extraordinary, including a fascinating treatise on the ACAAN plot. There is, of course, also a remarkable variety of parlor and stage effects. This includes three versions of the “oldest trick in the book”; Frye’s trademark Eccentricks (cartoon-illustrated gags, tricks, and stunts); mind reading miracles; close-up dodges with dice; and more.

All types of material for all skill levels. Sleightly Absurd offers something for everyone.

Sleightly Absurd is rounded out with a side-splitting memoir and collection of thought-provoking essays on character development, practice, and other practical matters for the modern entertainer. This is required reading for anyone who takes their craft seriously.

We’d also be remiss to no mention that book itself is a work of art. No expense was spared in crafting this smyth-sewn beauty that is truly a pleasure to learn from. A colossal colossus of conjuring and chicanery filled with over 1000 photographs. There truly is no equal!

"Here you will find cleverly crafted magic, brilliantly presented. Don’t just absorb all this wonderful magic; assimilate his artist ethic, his pro-tips, and be inspired by his process. This is where the craft approaches the lofty title of “art.” My highest recommendation."
John Carney

"Occasionally you will meet someone in your life that is just really, really good at everything they do. It’s pretty annoying. Charlie Frye makes everything look clever, funny and so effortless. He is a master in every sense. He has spent years developing an impressive collection of great material. Study this man, learn his ways of thinking, rehearsing, ethics, and performing. Get into his head. It will make you a better performer. If you are lucky enough to have Charlie as a friend as I have, by example, he will make you a better person. This book is a great place to start."
Kevin James

Contents of Sleightly Absurd
Act 1: Coins to Glass
Act 2: Mumbo Jumbo
Act 3: Some Assemblies Required
Entr'acte 1: The Schmuck Factor
Act 4: Dice Capades
Entr'acte 2: No Skill Required
Act 5: Going Mental
Entr'acte 3: Professional Courtesy
Act 6: The Eyeball Vase
Act 7: The Cups & Balls
Act 8: The Egg Bagatelle
Act 9: Playing With Knives
Entr'acte 4: Going for the Juggler
Act 10: Expat at the Table
Entr'acte 5: Process, Practice and Perfectshun
Act 11: ACAAN
Entr'acte 6: On the Subject of Character and The Ten Commandments*
Act 12: Eccentricks
Act 13: Around the World in 40 Years