Architect of the Mind by Drew Backenstoss
Architect of the Mind by Drew Backenstoss
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Your favorite mentalist's favorite mentalist shares the real secrets that have turned him into one of the most in-demand mind-readers on the planet.
Full Description
Architect of the Mind is a complete look at Drew’s approach to mentalism. Material ranging from impromptu, high-impact pieces you can perform anytime, to bold multi-phase routines involving predictions, influence, and deeply personal information. Whether you perform casually or professionally, you’ll find ideas you can put to work immediately.
Inside You’ll Learn
- 19 fully scripted mentalism routines covering close-up, strolling, and stage performance
- 10 essays on audience management, scripting, psychology, and business best-practices
- Material that builds credibility, creates authentic emotional impact, and scales for different performance conditions
- Real-world insights drawn from years of paid performance, not shallow theory or filler
Architect of the Mind is essential reading for anyone serious about mentalism and theatrical mind reading. Drew has used this material in performances around the world and now, for the first time in years, it’s available again.
What You Get
Hardcover with foil stamping
326 pages
6 × 9 trim size
Placeholder ribbon
What the Pros Say
"Drew Backenstoss is a true master of the craft. I was inspired enough to buy the first edition of Architect of the Mind back in 2019, and his work has been a constant source of insight ever since. This book is filled with deep, inspiring, and precise mentalism routines that cut straight to the heart of the matter. But what truly sets this book apart is the 'why'—Drew shares the exact architectural thinking needed to elevate your own performances to new heights. A must-read for serious mentalists." - Gabriel Werlen
"I was lucky enough getting the book (1st edition) before it quickly sold out – no wonder if you’ve seen Drew’s phantastic lecture! I love his thinking and the tons of subtleties he provides – just my take and taste, giving me the feelings that we might be brothers… His book is full of workable and completely elaborated routines, simply a book you must study at least. But I bet you will perform routines from it. One of my personal favorites is his wonderful “Bernstein Dynes on a Cloud”, and this not only as this routine got inspired by two of my own creations… it is simply wonderfully constructed and so easy to do. So, get this book while it’s available again!" - Jan Forster
"Drew is a major talent - a fantastic performer and a brilliant thinker. In this future-classic book he shares the results of his experience, teaching both amazing, professional-level routines that you'll want to learn immediately and his insightful thinking on the process and business of being a successful mentalist. If you want to be a better performer, this book delivers on every level." - Mark Elsdon
"Drew is one of the few great thinkers of modern mentalism. Everything he shares is worthy of your time and attention. These are ideas that work, you will love and are definitely going to use.” - Colin McLeod
It is rare indeed when a busy performer shares his wisdom on the business and his routines, especially if it’s in 300+ page hardbound book, and even rarer when that book contains really smart and useful information. Andrew Backenstoss’ impressive Architect of the Mind is one such book and it is definitely one of the better investments you’ll make all year." - Jheff
"Architect of the Mind is one of the most complete modern mentalism books I’ve read. Across 18 fully scripted routines and 10 essays, you get a clear sense of how Drew thinks and works. It’s easy to see why the book earned a reputation as a hard-to-find hidden gem prior to this reprinting. The essays are woven naturally throughout, and cover everything from business and contracts, to psychology and structure. The material is top tier, the insights are clearly earned and the book builds thoughtfully from one idea to the next." - Allan Hagen
"This book contains a metric tonne of remarkable insight-routines, experience, and hard-won knowledge you’ll want to absorb fully. Drew shares compelling premises, elegant methods, practical scripts, and even thoughtful stage direction. There isn’t a page you won’t enjoy or value. You’ll come for the ideas and leave wondering who just remodeled your thoughts." - Chris Rawlins
"Architect of the Mind is one of the very best books I have ever had the pleasure of reading. This is 100% essential reading for the modern mentalist!" - Michael Murray
"This book is one of the best books on commercial mentalism that you can find. It's one of my absolute favorites and Drew is one of the best, kindest guys in the business." - Madison Hagler, The Magic Review
"One of my favorite mentalism books, one of my favorite mentalists, one of my favorite people." - Tim Trono
"Drew is a true perfectionist. Every routine in Architect of the Mind has been thought through from every angle, refined, and then tested repeatedly in real professional performances. This isn’t theory for theory’s sake - it’s practical, polished mentalism from someone who genuinely understands performance. A highly recommended read for any serious mentalist." - Looch
"Drew is one of the most creative forces out there. I’m always looking for ideas that take a different angle and approach to what is expected. This book will help you do exactly that. As Drew walks you through his thought process for these brilliant routines, he will undoubtedly inspire your own creativity. I was fortunate to work closely with Drew as the primary magic consultant on my one-man show. His insight and instincts helped push really good ideas into unforgettable moments. I’m thankful readers get to see inside this humble architect’s clever mind." - Chris Canfield
"Drew’s book is both an inspiration and a compelling demonstration of how beautiful our magic can be. Although the methods are familiar, Drew’s thoughtful blending of trusted techniques and design principles, along with a genuine peek behind the curtain, creates material that is strong, refined, and personal." - Alejandro Suarez
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