When I was in grade eight, our class received a catalogue each month of books we could buy. I wanted them all - like most writers, I've always loved reading - but the only one I still remember buying was the one about magician Harry Houdini.

I've always loved magic and I thought the name Houdini was pretty cool. Who knew I'd grow up to write a book about him?

One thing I love about Houdini is that he had a really high opinion of himself. "I want my show to be the best of its kind whilst I am alive," Houdini said, "When I am dead there will not be another like it."

Houdini was also always trying new things. When audiences became bored with his tricks, he created new ones. When movies were invented, Houdini became a film star. Although, as he admitted, "No illusion is good in a film, as we simply resort to camera trix, and the deed is did."
Do I need to tell you Houdini never went to school much?

There was lots of magic around Houdini's life besides his tricks. For instance, he performed many card tricks. And he was 52 years old when he died, or the same number as cards in a deck of cards! Coincidence? It's hard to tell with Houdini! And he died on Hallowe'en, the spookiest day of the year.

Houdini performed magic for soldiers, policemen and many others. What audience scared him most? Kids! "Never try to fool children," advised Houdini. "They expect nothing and therefore see everything."

Try reading about Houdini and see if you like him as much as I do!