Based on Gene Hochman's The Encyclopedia of American Playing Cards which was originally published in six parts between 1976 and 1981. A complete cataloging of American playing card makers as well as details, types, and brands of playing cards from the late 1700s to the early 1930s.
Over 900 elaborate, decorative images from rare playing cards, 14th20th centuries: Bacchus, death, dancing dogs, hunting scenes, royal coats of arms, players cheating, much more. "
PLAYING CARDS IN CAIRO is a fly-on-the-wall account - like THE BOOKSELLER OF KABUL - of life (for western readers) in a strange and exotic environment. Hugh Miles lives in Cairo and is engaged to an Egyptian woman. Twice a week he plays cards with a small group of Arab, Muslim women and through this medium he explores their lives in modern Cairo, the greatest of Arab cities. It is a secretive, romantic, often deprived but always soulful existence for the women as they struggle with abusive husbands and philandering boyfriends. The book is a window onto a city - and a way of life - which is at a crucial juncture in its history. Hugh Miles, who knows the Arab world intimately, is the perfect guide.
This book contains a collection of mystifying magic and card tricks. Great as a gift, this book will dumfound friends and family and have them on their knees begging for the secret behind these mind-boggling tricks.