Bibliography | Magic ◊ Studies
The Magic ◊ Studies database is an international bibliographic Zotero resource dedicated to secondary academic literature on illusionism and magic.
The database uses Zotero, a free and open-source reference management software widely adopted by the research community, ensuring immediate usability. To use the database, you need to create a Zotero account (it’s quick, simple, and free). We also recommend installing the Zotero software along with useful plugins—such as the one that integrates it directly with Word.
Scope
To ensure coherence and efficiency, entries in the Magic ◊ Studies bibliography are selected according to strict criteria:
- Thematic: Only works that deal substantially with illusionism are included. Publications focused only on magic in the occult or esoteric sense are excluded.
- Formal: Only academic publications that have appeared in (blind or open) peer-reviewed journals are considered. Exceptionally, books on illusionism authored by members of the Magic ◊ Studies network may be included, regardless of the publisher, but according to their scientific interest.
Disclaimer
The inclusion of a publication in the Magic ◊ Studies database does not imply an endorsement of its quality. Users are encouraged to read each work critically. This bibliography is merely one entry point into the broader field of magic studies. Numerous excellent contributions exist outside academia and are therefore not included here—but they remain valuable for anyone interested in illusiography.
Missing a Reference?
The database is a work in progress. If you notice any missing references, please use contact page and email them—preferably in .rdf format, or alternatively in .bib format.
Current Achievements
- Complete integration of articles from Gibecière and The Journal of Performance Magic.
Work in Progress
- Ongoing integration of diverse scholarly works on illusionism.
- Exploring the possibility of including a broader range of members’ publications (beyond peer-reviewed journals).
- Integration of plugin ZotPress (currently unavailable in May 2025)