At the age of 12, John learned magic from his local Library in Brooklyn, NY. He learned coin tricks and card tricks and loved mystifying his friends. Starting a magic club and becoming the president, John was able to teach other children the art of magic. The meetings were held at the library and in return for the use of the library, John and his friends put on free shows for the public. This is how it all started for John Carlson!

John's "Read & Grow Magic Show" was customized for the State of New Jersey's Summer Reading theme. The show includes magic, ventriloquism, audience participation, comedy, music, and the appearance of Snowflake the dove and Reader Rabbit the bunny.

While the children are laughing and being mystified they are also learning about the importance of reading, setting goals, and believing in themselves. Ultimately the message motivates them to read more and John shares how reading helped him to become a good magician.