Getting started in magic should start with books. It is sad to say though that many new magicians spend their hard earned money on a DVD or a single trick only to find that the method or effect isn't really anything they will perform. There are many DVDs out there that teach you a single trick for $20 to $30. That might be a great investment if you use it. A book, however, has many tricks that you can choose from and at the only a fraction of the cost. My suggestion is to explore books first and then DVDs later. OK, so which books are for you? Here are some suggestions.
Library Books
First, go to your public library and look at and check out every magic book they have. This is the best way to go to see what is out there. Read through the books and figure out which tricks you would really like to learn. Get a notebook, preferably the bound kind that you are not tempted to tear pages out of. The notebook is a great way to keep lists of tricks you already know or own and those you'd like to learn or add to your repertoire. Take notes of the important points of each trick.
General Magic
When it comes to books that you may want to invest in, here are some good ones that won't break the bank.
Mark Wilson Complete Course in Magic
If you can only get one magic book to get started, then this would probably be the one. At 472 pages, there is a wealth of information. A large amount of space is devoted to card magic including self-working tricks to sleight of hand and flourishes. Money, Rope, Silk, Impromtu, Sponge Ball, Billiard Ball, Cups & Ball, and Mental magic are all covered as well, each with their own dedicated chapter. The book also includes "Make at Home Magic" which include magic apparatus for the do-it-your-selfer which are great projects for the beginner. The book also covers some stage illusions and is a great resource for those who want to tackle bigger venues.
Cyclopedia of Magic by Henry Hay
This is an alphabetical guide to terminology, tricks, illusions & more. Nice little reference book to those starting out in magic. Compiled from various other magic books and sources in this unique guide. "Learn Magic" and "Amateur Magician's Handbook" are 2 other books by Hay that are also good resources for the new magician.
Big Book of Magic by Patrick Page
This was one my first books in magic and personal favorite of mine. It is well illustrated and includes many classics in magic. It starts with a brief history of magic and then on to magic accessories, where various types of wands (vanishing, rising, breakaway & more), tables, and production boxes are discussed. There are chapters on the standards such as coin magic, card tricks, ball manipulation, paper magic, liquid tricks, and rope tricks. The chapter on Sleights & Productions covers classic such as Twentieth Century Silk Trick, Rings on Rod Illusion, Passe Bottle and Glass, Vanishing Birdcage, Drawer Box, Square Circle, Inexhausible Box, Sliding Die Box, and more. There is also a Conjuring with Livestock section which has apparatus effects such as the dove pan, vanishing bunny, rabbit cage, and vanishing dove cage. The book concludes with the Magic Spectaculars which covers many illusions and escapes. Included in this chapter is The Levitation, Sword Cabinet, Substitution Trunk, Sword Suspension, Dollhouse Illusion, Indian Basket, Guillotine, Chair Levitation, and various escapes.
Specialty Books on Magic
The following books cover more specific topics on magic and will be based on your areas of interest:
The Magic Book by Harry Lorayne
This book is subtitled as "The Complete Beginner's Guide to Anytime, Anywhere, Sleight-of-Hand Magic." At 306 pages, it covers all the expected areas such as cards, coins, mentalism, and more.
Royal Road to Card Magic by Jean Hugard and Fredrick Braue
This is a classic book which is suitable to all magicians who are interested in card magic. A likely part of any serious card workers library and a great place to start for those getting into card magic.
Now you See It, Now You Don't by Bill Tarr
Great book for the beginner and intermediate magician which is known for its extensive and easy to follow illustrations. Covers cards, cups & balls, 3 shell game, misers dream and more. There is also a sequel to this book which picks up where this one leaves off.
Modern Coin Magic by JB Bobo
A comprehensive book on coin magic which is available in an inexpensive softcover from Dover. The hardcover "New Modern Coin Magic" has expanded material but the original has more than enough material for the beginner.
Magic and Showmanship by Henning Nelms
This book explores the art of showmanship and covers such topics as patter, misdirection, and effective use of assistants. There are some tricks interwoven to provide examples of his teachings. This is suggested reading for all magicians.
Professional Magic for Children by David Ginn
A classic book for those interested in entertaining children. Provides the experiences of a professional magician who does over 400 shows per year. Covers dealing with kids show audiences and includes dozens of routines.
Annnemann's Practical Mental Magic by Theo Annemann
This is a must for any aspiring mentalist. Covers all the classics from billets to book tests to slates and more. Also available in an inexpensive Dover reprint.
Buying Books
Before you go your favorite magic site and order one of these books. I have a secret I would like to share and that is bookfinder.com. I never buy a book without check this site first. Bookfinder.com searches most major (new and used) online book sites and will find you the cheapest copy of common books and will also locate hard-to-find titles as well.