Presenting the amazing Harry Kellar: the first magician to receive international fame and the model for the Wizard of Oz! In this illustrated biography of the most well-known illusionist at the turn of the twentieth century, Author Gail Jarrow follows Kellar from a magician's assistant traveling and performing across the United States during the Civil War to an international superstar with a show of his own, entertaining emperors, kings, and presidents.   Jarrow uses Kellar's own words and images—his amazing four-color promotional posters—to tell his riveting story in this first Kellar biography for young readers. And she reveals the science behind Kellar's illusions and explores nineteenth-century entertainment and transportation as well as the history of magic, spiritualism, and séances. ★ "A first-rate visual presentation accompanies a fascinating biography of the first dean of the Society of American Magicians, a man Houdini regarded as a mentor. . . . Dozens of spectacular Kellar posters along with a dramatic book design nicely support this well-constructed look at a consummate showman. (timeline, bibliography, annotated sources)"— Kirkus Reviews , starred review ★ "This book draws readers in. . . . An excellent example of nonfiction that is readable, visually appealing, and well researched."— School Library Journal , starred review Gail Jarrow is the author of novels and nonfiction books, including The Amazing Harry Kellar, Great American Magician; Lincoln's Flying Spies; The Printer's Trial ; and Robert H. Jackson , New Deal Lawyer, Supreme Court Justice, Nuremberg Prosecutor . Her books have been chosen as Junior Library Guild selections and have received awards from the American Booksellers Association, American Library Association, National Science Teachers Association & the Children's Book Council, Public Library Association, the Society of School Librarians International, and Bank Street College of Education. A graduate of Duke University and Dartmouth College, Gail lives in Ithaca, New York.