The Magic Misfits
Written by Neil Patrick Harris

Publisher’s Summary:
Six young magicians and illusionists team up to save their small town from a crooked carnival owner and his goons.

Primary Source Pairing:
Carter is good at magic; really good. But he only wants to use his magic for good causes, unlike his evil Uncle Sly. When Carter lands in a new small town, he discovers a group of like-minded magicians who also want to use their magic for fun and to help others. For this primary source pairing, invite students to study a 1906 photograph of famous magician Harry Houdini. Encourage students to learn more about Harry Houdini and how his type of magic was revolutionary over 100 years ago.

Questions for Discussion:

• Describe what you see.
• What do you notice first?
• What people and objects are shown?
• How much of the text can you read? What does it say?
• What do you see that looks strange or unfamiliar?
• How are the words arranged?
• Make a connection to what you see and read in this photograph to what you read in the book The Magic Misfits.

Credits:
Book Cover and Summary: Follett
Harry Houdini photograph: Library of Congress