The Sense of Wonder by Robert Neale

The Sense of Wonder is the second volume in Robert E. Neale’s Trilogy of Magic and continues his exploration of how magic relates to perception, meaning, and the human experience of wonder.

Written by Robert E. Neale, the book expands on the idea that “wonder” is not a single experience, but a range of perceptions shaped by attention, imagination, and context. Neale connects these ideas directly to performance, showing how magicians can create more meaningful and engaging experiences for audiences.

Alongside its theoretical content, the book includes thirty-one original magic routines, almost all previously unpublished at the time of release. Each routine is fully scripted and designed for performance using simple, everyday props such as playing cards, paper, coins, bills, cardboard, and small objects like toy balls. The emphasis is on clear presentation and strong thematic structure rather than complex sleight of hand.

The material reflects Neale’s distinctive approach, where method and presentation are closely tied to meaning. The routines are intended not only as tricks, but as complete performance pieces that explore ideas of perception, storytelling, and surprise.

Praised within the magic community for its depth and originality, The Sense of Wonder continues the philosophical and creative direction established in the first volume of the trilogy, The Magic of Celebrating Illusion, which has been widely recognized for its contribution to magic theory.

You receive with The Sense of Wonder a combination of performance-ready routines and thoughtful exploration of what creates genuine wonder in magic.