The Amazing Harry Kellar

Presenting the amazing Harry Kellar: the first magician to receive international fame and the model for the Wizard of Oz!

In this illustrated biography of the most well-known illusionist at the turn of the twentieth century, Author Gail Jarrow follows Kellar from a magician's assistant traveling and performing across the United States during the Civil War to an international superstar with a show of his own, entertaining emperors, kings, and presidents.
 
Jarrow uses Kellar's own words and images—his amazing four-color promotional posters—to tell his riveting story in this first Kellar biography for young readers. And she reveals the science behind Kellar's illusions and explores nineteenth-century entertainment and transportation as well as the history of magic, spiritualism, and séances.★ "A first-rate visual presentation accompanies a fascinating biography of the first dean of the Society of American Magicians, a man Houdini regarded as a mentor. . . . Dozens of spectacular Kellar posters along with a dramatic book design nicely support this well-constructed look at a consummate showman. (timeline, bibliography, annotated sources)"—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ "This book draws readers in. . . . An excellent example of nonfiction that is readable, visually appealing, and well researched."—School Library Journal, starred reviewGail Jarrow's books have earned many awards, including the YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults, a Sibert Honor, Orbis Pictus Honor, YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction finalist, a Notable Social Studies Trade Book, NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Book and Best STEM book, The Jefferson Cup Award, a Eureka! Gold Award, as well as Kirkus Reviews and School Library Journal Best Books and VOYA Honor Book distinctions. She lives in Ithaca, New York. Visit gailjarrow.com.