Chung Ling Soo, the man of mystery
By: by Gary R. Frank.
Publisher: Fantastic Magic Co.
Published: 1988
Place of publication: Granada Hills, Calif
Language: eng
Number of pages: 52
Subjects: Soo, Chung Ling, 1861-1918.; Magicians -- United States -- Biography.
Description: This is limited single edition book of the life of William Ellsworth Robinson. He was the man who the world knew in the early 1900's as the illustrious performer "Chung Ling Soo, The Marvelous Chinese Conjurer". He was an inventor, a master magician and a writer. The book takes you through the years as Robinson builds his knowledge and his reputation as a master of his craft. Robinson worked for two of the finest performers of the time Herrmann and Kellar. You'll read about Robinson's performances, his failures and his untimely death. Find out what really happened to this famous magician in the prime of his life. Included in this hard bound book are over twenty photographs, two in full color. There is some information that has never been placed in print. The book has a bookplate and W. E. Robinson's son, Hector Robinson signed each book.

The purpose of this book was to add to what had been previously written on the life of William Ellsworth Robinson. The basic information of where Robinson was born and where/how he died was necessary to complete this work. It did not seem necessary to add to what had already covered before. Prior to "The Man of Mystery" book, there were no details of what happened to the bullets or muskets after that evening's performance in March 1918 in the written history of magic. The photographs that were also included in this publication were also not included previously. The written facts of the life and times of William E. Robinson could never have been written into one book. The proceeds of "Mystery" book paid to have William Ellsworth Robinson's grave repaired... twice. Since its publication, the task has been taken over by The Magic Circle. They are keeping tabs to make sure that Robinson's grave (and others) remain in good condition.