Oil & Water Rides Again by Michael Skinner

Classic Sampler by Michael Skinner, 1996
Page 9 et seq.

Personal Comment: If I had to go for an oil and water routine, I would go for this one. It is practical, has only three phases, has a climax, is easy to remember and there is a margin of error that is not crucial...
But I don't have to.

Difficulty 3/5

The Mona Lisa Card Trick by Michael Skinner

Classic Sampler by Michael Skinner, 1996
Page 4 et seq.

Personal Comment: Just a card change, but the presentation and the revelation makes it seem much more than it is. The actual magic moment is so disconnected from any possibility of sleight of hand, that it turns this simple card change into a piece of art itself. I am full of praise for this one. And compared to all the recent visual card changes this stands out as something beautiful. I like it very much.

Difficulty 1/5

The Conus Aces by Michael Skinner

Classic Sampler by Michael Skinner, 1996
Page 6 et seq.

Personal Comment: Holy Crap! This is a goody. Again one of those tricks where you have an emotional climax instead of a logical one. Why are the queens there? Nobody cares. You could go for the "Four Queens Hotel"-line, but it is not necessary I think. But What I do think is essential is that the spectator covers the tabled cards. That gives the effect a nice "in the hands"-feel. The trick itself is way older of course, but Michael Skinner's handling took out the sucker part which I think makes it much better. This is very close to go into my all time favorite pile. Because it is practical as well. All work can be done as the aces are taken out of the deck.

Difficulty 3/5

SentiMental ACES by Michael Skinner

Richard's Almanac by Richard Kaufman
Issue 16, December 1983
Page 148 et seq.

Personal Comment: Nice version of the classic plot. It needs a very soft surface which makes it difficult most of the time. I still like it, but cannot see myself performing this any time soon. But those who can control their performing environment will get a kick out of this solid routine.

Difficulty: 3/5