This book was written to offer enough hard information on escapes to permit even a beginner to successfully add escapes to his act. Not only are there \’secrets\’ on how to escape from cuffs and other restraints, but also even more important are the many tips on showmanship, stage presence and presentation, which are the real secrets to a successful performance. For any performer considering adding escapes to the act, always remember that the ESCAPE ARTIST is one of the most respected performers in the realm of magic. In fact, he is the only performer in magic accorded the title \’artist\’. We must all be thankful for HOUDINI for that honor. Eric Weiss or Harry Houdini is the man who earned the respect that audiences give to the escape performer and we must strive to make our act worthy. Many modern performers are doing his escapes without wanting to give him the recognition as the master. Houdini worked very hard to become known as the \”KING OF ESCAPES.\” His stage name is the word in many languages meaning, \”To escape from impossible situations.\” Often they will be used in a sentence such as \”he did a Houdini.\” Houdini brought glory and mystique to escapes. His powerful personality was such that he dominated his audiences. He would step up to the footlights and project his personality so each member of the audience. They thought Houdini was looking and talking directly to them. While few of us have Houdini\’s power, we must work hard to develop it to our highest level.