The Man Who Was Erdnase – Martin Gardner, Jeff Busby & Bart Whaley (1991 First Edition)

The Expert at the Card Table by S.W. Erdnase remains the most influential book on card magic ever published – a work that transformed countless beginners into masters. But for over a century, the true identity of “Erdnase” remained one of magic’s greatest mysteries.

The Man Who Was Erdnase (1991), written by Martin Gardner, Jeff Busby, and Bart Whaley, is the first and only full-length biography revealing the life, crimes, and methods of the man behind the name: Milton Franklin Andrews.

This landmark volume uncovers the complete story:

• The life of Milton Franklin Andrews – from magician to cardsharp.

• His rise as a professional cheat, his notorious partners, and his scandalous affairs.

• The sensational police chases, murder accusations, and tragic ending that shocked the world.

• The truth behind The Expert at the Card Table – how it was written, sourced, and published.

• Andrews’ personal letters, manuscripts, and unpublished card routines.

• More than 750 historical and technical notes, including the first in-depth analysis of the Erdnase Grip, the Bottom Deal, and the Mechanic’s Grip.

• Rare photos of Andrews, his associates, magicians he knew, and even his grave.

With over 448 pages, this first edition from Jeff Busby Magic, Inc. is not just a biography – it is a monumental research achievement, filled with exhaustive analysis, rare documents, and revelations never before available to magicians.

As Juan Tamariz raved:
"I read it without stop!!! I enjoyed it very, very, very much!!! It’s very interesting and the technical chapters are great!!! What a job!... This kind of work advances magic more and more."

The Man Who Was Erdnase remains the definitive investigation into the greatest mystery in card magic history.