1918 Harry Houdini performed a single illusion that has been hotly debated ever since: he made a live elephant disappear on stage. How did he do it? The answer lies in this dazzling tale of innovation, chicanery and keen competition that is the backstage story of the golden age of magic.
'Hiding The Elephant' chronicles the race among history's most legendary conjurers to make things materialize, levitate, and disappear. A master illusionist and captivating storyteller, Steinmeyer introduces us to the eccentric personalities behind such optical marvels as floating ghosts, disembodied heads and vanishing ladies. He reveals the mechanics of their mysteries and casts a spell as mesmerizing as their art.