Twenty Hypnotic Tricks by Nelmar; with: Instantaneous Hypnotism

Chicago: self-published, 1945. Two guidebooks for the aspiring hypnotist, self-published by Nelmar, stage name of Chicago magician Anthony Nelmar Albino. The mimeographed text retains his corrections by hand and type. Twenty Hypnotic Tricks offers step-by-step instructions for making subjects whistle on command (“TRY IT!”) and thrusting a foot-long needle through the wrist, among other riveting illusions. Instantaneous Hypnotism warns readers that if they do not commit to “several months of practical experience” as a hypnotist, then “all incidents leading up this way will result in complete failure and utter ridicule, and you will be made the laughing stock.” Nelmar reissued his comically hectoring guidebooks periodically, with minor edits. The front wrapper of Twenty Hypnotic Tricks includes the line “copyrighted 1933,” but this is likely a later issue. The list of titles at the end of Instantaneous Hypnotism includes William Sadler’s 1945 book Modern Psychiatry with the comment “Just Out,” along with Twenty Hypnotic Tricks priced at $1.00, the price of our copy. Instantaneous Hypnotism is advertised in the October 5, 1946 issue of Billboard at this $5.00 price. OCLC locates five holdings of Twenty Hypnotic Tricks, and no holdings of Instantaneous Hypnotism. A scarce pair of self-published guidebooks by a popular American hypnotist. Two side-stapled volumes, measuring 11 x 8.5 inches: each containing 24 leaves followed by a leaf of advertisements, text printed rectos only. Original orange pictorial wrappers printed in black and one full-page illustration in each volume; additional in-text illustration in first volume. Text lightly toned, a few minor chips to wrappers, front wrapper of second volume detached. (Inventory #: 1003951)