Unlock by Mark Elsdon - Book

Open the book. Unlock the mindset. Change the way you think about mentalism.

Unlock is not a trick book—it’s a deep look inside the working mind of Mark Elsdon. Part manifesto, part masterclass, this is a rare, candid exploration of how strong mentalism is actually built, performed, and remembered.

Collected here are all of Mark’s thinking and secrets since 2010, spread across 55 chapters that cover far more than methods. You’ll learn how to develop a compelling persona, how to choose material that fits you, how to handle unpredictable situations, and how to create moments that linger long after the performance ends. Whether you’re new to mentalism or years into professional work, this book is designed to reshape how you approach the art.

Along the way, you’ll find powerful, field-tested effects, including:

• Quiz Master — A clever mental effect using cards from Trivial Pursuit
• Memorisation — One of Mark’s signature routines for astonishing memory demonstrations
• Antique Roadshow — Predict the value of any object with uncanny accuracy

For the first time in print, Mark also releases Decibel Vision—a hands-off miracle where a psychic friend reveals a thought-of card over the phone. The performer never selects a card, never dials the number, and never speaks to the psychic at any point. Completely isolated. Completely baffling. This single routine alone could justify the book.

Unlock is also a true collaboration. Mark invited 22 of the most creative minds in magic and mentalism to contribute ideas, concepts, and routines, including Michael Weber, Chris Carter, Lee Earle, Sean Taylor, Chuck Hickok, Ran Pink, Drew McAdam, Jasper Blakeley, Thom Bleasdale, Scott Grossberg, Luke Jermay, Ken Dyne, Stuart Nolan, Richard P. Slater, Atlas Brookings, Bill Abbott, Paul Brook, Roddy McGhie, Tom Bennett, Jeff McBride, and more.

And there’s one more layer: hidden within the book is a secret puzzle. Solve it, and you could win a special prize. The challenge is real—and very much in the spirit of the book.

This isn’t about learning what to do.
It’s about learning how to think.

UNLOCK — by Mark Elsdon
55 chapters.
22 contributors.
416 pages.
One door opened.

“Mark Elsdon is my secret weapon. Well, he was until I told you about him. He's the first, and usually only, person I turn to when I get stuck. Why? Because he constantly finds unique and practical solutions to creating astonishing magic. The man's brain is a goldmine of quality ideas and material.” – Colin McLeod

“Mark Elsdon is equally adept at inventing, performing, creating, and theorizing about magic. He consults for television, lectures, and performs, all with equal proficiency. And, he's one of my favorite guys to watch.” – Joshua Jay

“Mark Elsdon is on a very short list of magic and mentalism's most creative innovators. When Mark let's me in on what he's working on, I'm ALWAYS fooled badly and find something to add to my own work.” – Bill Abbott