Magi is a fantasy novel written by William Goldman, best known for his work as a screenwriter for movies such as The Princess Bride. In this novel, Goldman takes readers on a magical journey through the life of a young boy named Magus who has a talent for magic. The story is set in a fictional world where magic is a common practice, and Magus is eager to become a powerful magician. However, his journey to becoming a great magician is not an easy one. Throughout the book, Goldman explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the power of belief. Magus faces many challenges and obstacles on his path, including his relationship with his mentor, other magicians who try to sabotage him, and his own doubts and insecurities.
Screenplays:
Masquerade (1965) – co-screenwriter
Harper (1966)
The Hot Rock (1972) – reviewed here
All the President’s Men (1976)
Misery (1990)
Year of the Comet (1992)
The Chamber (1996) – co-screenwriter
Absolute Power (1997)
The General’s Daughter (1999) – co-screenwriter
The film also boasts a fine score by Jerry Goldsmith, who in an inspired touch uses the inhalation and exhalations of a harmonica to match Corky s ventriloquism,. Some of the set pieces, while very well done, are fairly traditional such as when the murderer worries if the body they put at the bottom of the lake will stay there when they are unexpectedly taken fishing near the some place.
Magus faces many challenges and obstacles on his path, including his relationship with his mentor, other magicians who try to sabotage him, and his own doubts and insecurities. As Magus grows older, he gains more knowledge and experience in magic, but also realizes that true power lies in the understanding and control of one's own mind. Goldman's writing is witty and engaging, with humor scattered throughout the story.
Magic by William Goldman, Signed (8 results)
Hardcover. Condition: Very Good. Dust Jacket Condition: Very Good. First Edition. Stated First Edition, First Printing. Not price-clipped ($7.95 price intact). Published by Delacorte Press, 1976. Octavo. Black cloth over silver boards stamped in silver with red topstain. Signed by William Goldman on title page (flat signed not inscribed). Book is very good; clean and crisp with spine straight and corners sharp. Has a few spots along top of pages and a slight staining of topstain down the vertical edge of pages. Dust jacket is very good. Has some water staining marks along front and back panel, but no warping or curling to boards or pages. A scarce signed copy of this classic William Goldman novel. 243 pages. ISBN: 0-440-05159-2. 100% positive feedback. 30 day money back guarantee. NEXT DAY SHIPPING! Excellent customer service. Please email with any questions or if you would like a photo. All books packed carefully and ship with free delivery confirmation/tracking. All books come with free bookmarks. Ships from Southampton, New York.
Seller ImageHe creates a vivid and detailed world, filled with colorful characters and imaginative settings. The book also delves into deeper philosophical questions about the nature of magic and the meaning of life. One of the main strengths of Magi is its character development. Magus is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist, and readers become invested in his journey. Goldman also introduces a diverse cast of supporting characters, each with their own motivations and backstories. The interactions between these characters are often humorous and heartwarming, adding depth and texture to the story. Overall, Magi is a delightful and thought-provoking novel that explores the power of magic and the importance of self-discovery. William Goldman's masterful storytelling and engaging characters make this book a must-read for fantasy fans..
Reviews for "The Historical Context of Magi: Examining William Goldman's Inspirations"
1. John - 2/5 - I was really disappointed with "Magi" by William Goldman. While the concept of a magical adventure sounded promising, the execution fell flat for me. The plot felt disjointed and lacked depth, making it hard for me to connect with the characters. Additionally, the writing style was dry and the pacing was incredibly slow. Overall, it failed to captivate my interest and I struggled to finish the book.
2. Megan - 1/5 - "Magi" by William Goldman was a complete letdown. The story lacked originality and creativity. It was filled with cliché fantasy tropes and predictable plot twists. I found the characters to be one-dimensional and their motivations were poorly developed. Furthermore, the dialogue felt forced and unnatural, making it difficult for me to engage with the story. I regret wasting my time on this book and would not recommend it to others.
3. Sarah - 2/5 - I had high hopes for "Magi" by William Goldman, but unfortunately, it fell far short of my expectations. The world-building was shallow, with limited descriptions and a lack of intricate details. The characters were forgettable, and their actions often seemed arbitrary and illogical. The plot meandered without a clear direction, leaving me confused and disinterested. While I appreciate the effort to create a magical adventure, the execution was lacking in many aspects, making it a forgettable read for me.
4. David - 2/5 - I struggled to enjoy "Magi" by William Goldman. The pacing was incredibly slow, with long stretches of inaction that made it difficult to stay engaged. The characters lacked depth and their relationships felt contrived. Moreover, the magic system was poorly explained and inconsistent throughout the story. Overall, I found the reading experience to be dull and unsatisfying. I was hoping for a captivating fantasy tale, but unfortunately, "Magi" failed to deliver.