The New Encyclopedia of Stage Hypnotism

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Summary: The definitive work on stage hypnotism
Review: Arguably Ormond McGill's magnum opus of hypnotism, this gargantuan tome includes information on every aspect of stage hypnosis. Everything is covered in great detail, including getting started, rapid inductions, stage setup, mass inductions, stage routines, publicity and show climaxes.

I purchased this book from Amazon.com out of curiosity only and got far more than I expected. I am not a hypnotist, but his "getting started" confidence-building exercises were easy to perform on a willing friend. After reading the book I now watch stage hypnotism performances and notice how much of the performer's material comes from (or at least is covered in) this book.

The first part of the book (around 270 pages) is dedicated to the mechanics of how to hypnotize, including details of over 100 standard inductions plus at least a dozen "rapid" inductions, so even if your interest in hypnotism isn't for stage use (such as hypnotherapy) you will most likely find value in this book. The second part is devoted to the art of stage hypnotism and the mechanics of putting on a show.

On the down side, Amazon.com had to order this one from the publisher in the UK, and it took a full 8 weeks to receive. Well worth the wait but instant gratification it isn't.

Rating:
Summary: Here's why we see so much variation in the ratings
Review: If you are reading this, you probably have noticed that there is a lot of variability in the ratings of books on hypnosis, particularly this one, and you will save time and money if you know why.

There is quite a difference between stage hypnotism and hypnotherapy or clinical hypnosis. The former accounts for books like these and the latter accounts for books with a greater deal of theoretical background information (and the like).

Personally I am not too fond of this book... it is rather expensive (being hard cover). HOWEVER, if you are interested in stage hypnotism for the sake of inducing hypnosis without really understanding what it is, how it works or why it works, than it is probably worth owning. I find this book has too much emphasis on inductions and not enough on theory or language. If you have a decent understanding of hypnotic language (Ericksonian language or ideally, the Milton Model) then literally thousands of different inductions can be used so why right them all down?

If you have a more analytical mind and are more interested in theory (like me) I would go with Patterns I and II by Richard Bandler and John Grinder --- they are much more difficult to read, (and complicated) but useful in understanding the what/why/how of hypnosis.

If you just want to learn a handful (100 or so) for hypnotizing some friends at parties and want to read a 600 page book in the process than this is the book for you. It is a fairly fast read in the mean time, just hold the book open in one hand while you hypnotize someone right next to you.

Perhaps you will find this review a little long winded, so let me summarize:
methods many
theory little

Rating:
Summary: Extremely Informative
Review: Im a sixteen year old who bought this book not to become a stage hypnotist but because the subject interests me and I enjoy hypnotising my friends and family (the ones that aren't too scared). I found it really interesting and it outlined and instructed almost everything to do with hypnosis.

Ive seen this book here for a while but it says it cannot be shipped yet because it hasnt been printed. But for those of you that cant wait, do as I did and jump on over to www.amazon.co.uk As they have The New Encyclopedia Of Stage Hypnotism there at present. Though it is the 1996 version I cant see how they would have made any ground breaking discoveries since then without me hearing about them :)

All in all It is the best hypnosis book money can buy. So if youre interested in Stage Hypnosis BUY IT!

Rating:
Summary: The New Encyclopedia of Stage Hypnotism
Review: This book has it all. If you want to learn stage hypnotism get this book. It takes you from A to Z. Reading about the greats in the business and their routines will help you with your own shows. I could go on and on. Just buy it if you think you want to perform stage hypnotism.

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Summary: Simply... an E N C Y C L O P E D I A!
Review: This is a must buy encyclopedia not only for those who are interested in Stage Hypnotism!

The contents of this book are very rich as follows: 1. Part One is very helpful to all who want to know, understand, practice hypnotism. It helps you: a. understand hypnotism with its characteristics and theories. b. teaches how use the power of suggestion, its rules, timing, repetition, delivery & compounding. c. learn about the hypnotic powers of your body and its magnetic energy. And this part becomes a test for you to believe in yourself first before practicing on others! d. with full details of step by step 90+ methods of Hypnotism that includes pictures.

This part is very entertaining, easy to read and can be read according to your interests in each chapter's subject. And you do not need to have any idea about hypnotism to learn it. All of this comes in 278 pages.

2. But Part Two comes in 290 pages and is mainly for those who want to perform Hynotism in professional shows. And it includes several complete hypnotism shows, effects, entertainment, secrets, tips, openings, routines, ideas... of professional stage hypnotists.

After going through this rich book, I say the only key you need to make this book work for you is believing in yourself nothing more!

I cannot recommend renting this book, because you won't get enough from it that way. It's a must buy E N C Y C L O P E D I A for future reference.

Rating:
Summary: Excellant Book
Review: You want to learn stage hypnosis from a master? Buy Ormand's book. I have all Ormand's book and had the opportunity to study with Ormand. A well written book filled with a lifetime of experience! A must for any serious student of hypnotism. Although I have been a professional stage hypnotist for over 15 years, I still refer people to Ormands gem filled book! Spencer- SleepNow.com Productions- How to Hypnotize Anyone, Anytime