Used Copy

"Trix & Chatter" 

A Novelty - Serio - Comic Magic-Ologue

by W. Dornfeld (Dorny)

About Trix and Chatter by W. Dornfeld (“Dorny”)

Witty, whimsical, and wonderfully old-school—Trix and Chatter is a theatrical stroll through the magical mind of Dorny, one of the most respected and well-loved magicians of the early 20th century. This 1921 first edition, published by Arthur P. Felsman of Chicago, captures Dorny's signature blend of charm, satire, and showmanship.

Presented in the format of a lighthearted magical “stage program,” the book unfolds in three acts, complete with humorous intermissions and a finale. A standout section, “Who’s Who – and Why,” gives readers a peek behind the curtain at many of Dorny’s contemporaries—offering entertaining and insightful sketches of some of magic’s legendary names.

You’ll also find a generous helping of patter, bits of business, and practical tricks spanning cards, coins, mental effects, and more—many contributed by Dorny’s friends and peers including Jean Hugard, Harry Blackstone, Charles Jordan, Brema, Hilliar, and others.

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Contents Snapshot:

• Overture

• Act One – “Chatter”

• Intermission – “The Ne-Kro-Mancer Man”

• Act Two – “Who’s Who – and Why”

• Intermission – “War Magic”

• Act Three – “Trix”

• Finale

Used – Vintage Hardbound First Edition (1921)
Published by Arthur P. Felsman, Chicago

A delightful and hard-to-find gem from the early 20th century, Trix and Chatter by Dory (1921) offers a thoughtful blend of magic tricks, patter lines, and stage-worthy humor from one of Chicago’s prominent magical publishers—Arthur P. Felsman.

This 286 page hardbound volume is packed with practical material perfect for the working magician, including simple effects, bits of business, and ready-to-use lines that still play well today. Dory’s style is conversational and witty—ideal for magicians looking to enhance routines with personality and polish.

A rare piece of magic literature that captures the voice and flavor of an earlier era in performance.

📌 Condition Report:

• Cover: Hardbound blueish green  covers show moderate age wear with some edge softening and light soiling to rear
• Binding: Loose, but still intact. Original light brown cloth hardcover
• Pages: Clean interior. There is writing on first blank page and last inside back cover. No other marking observed.Lightly toned with age, but clean and unmarked
• Interior: Very legible with no missing pages, black & white photos and illustrations.
• Overall Condition: Good to Very Good (104 years old!)

• ​Spine: Gilt title present, a bit dulled; minor fraying at spine ends