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Magic Tree House "Merlin Missions" #22
Hurry Up, Houdini!
Abracadabra! Jack and Annie are on a mission for Merlin the magician. They’re looking for a secret of greatness from the best escape artist that ever lived, Harry Houdini. Using the magic tree house to travel back in time, Jack and Annie head to Coney Island to look for the elusive magician. How can they find the master of escape? It’s going to take some determination, a little bit of trouble, and a whole lot of magic!
Did you know that there’s a Magic Tree House book for every kid?
Magic Tree Adventures with Jack and Annie, perfect for readers who are just beginning chapter books
Merlin More challenging adventures for the experienced reader
Super A longer and more dangerous adventure
Fact Nonfiction companions to your favorite Magic Tree House adventures
Have more fun with Jack and Annie at MagicTreeHouse.com!
Did you know that there’s a Magic Tree House book for every kid?
Magic Tree Adventures with Jack and Annie, perfect for readers who are just beginning chapter books
Merlin More challenging adventures for the experienced reader
Super A longer and more dangerous adventure
Fact Nonfiction companions to your favorite Magic Tree House adventures
Have more fun with Jack and Annie at MagicTreeHouse.com!
128 pages, Library Binding
First published January 1, 2013
301 people are currently reading
1963 people want to read
About the author
Mary Pope Osborne
1,093 books2,575 followersMary Pope Osborne is an American author of children's books and audiobook narrator. She is best known as the author of the Magic Tree House series, which as of 2017 sold more than 134 million copies worldwide. Both the series and Osborne have won awards, including for Osborne's charitable efforts at promoting children's literacy. One of four children, Osborne moved around in her childhood before attending the University of North Carolina. Following college, Osborne traveled before moving to New York City. She somewhat spontaneously began to write, and her first book was published in 1982. She went on to write a variety of other children's and young adult books before starting the Magic Tree House series in 1992. Osborne's sister Natalie Pope Boyce has written several compendium books to the Magic Tree House series, sometimes with Osborne's husband Will Osborne.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
August 21, 2024
Step into the world of magic and illusion with Jack and Annie as they meet the famous magician, Harry Houdini. The story is filled with intriguing magic tricks and historical details about Houdini's life. The blend of mystery and history makes it a fascinating read. This is perfect for young readers who are fascinated by magic and famous historical figures. -Teen Volunteer Adhyyan R.
October 2, 2014
I asked my daughter to bring books home from school so we can read together. She brought home "Hurry Up, Houdini! I read it and now I wait for her to read the book. Then we talk about it. I felt like I was in Coney Island on the amusement rides. It was like I was a little kid paying a few pennies for a hot dog and coke.
The reader was transformed back to the early 1900's. Along with meeting Harry Houdini, we met his wife Bess. They were a lovely couple and much in love. It would of been exciting meeting Harry and Bess but Mary made the couple come alive. This is the next best thing. I won't reveal the lesson that was a take away from the story but I will say it was a great lesson. Again I'm looking forward to my daughter reading this book and the conversation that will follow.
The reader was transformed back to the early 1900's. Along with meeting Harry Houdini, we met his wife Bess. They were a lovely couple and much in love. It would of been exciting meeting Harry and Bess but Mary made the couple come alive. This is the next best thing. I won't reveal the lesson that was a take away from the story but I will say it was a great lesson. Again I'm looking forward to my daughter reading this book and the conversation that will follow.
August 21, 2016
In general, I find Annie annoying. Mainly because part of the basic formula is that she doesn't listen, does what she wants, screws everything up, but somehow everything works out anyway. She never learns, never progresses, never really seems to feel bad for her actions.
I get formulas for writing a long series of children's books...but seriously. After 50 adventures, shouldn't Annie have matured just a little? Or is the fact that things always work out somehow what keeps her from feeling like she has to change?
Anyway. Claire does like listening to these, but I can only read them with her if I edit Annie.
I get formulas for writing a long series of children's books...but seriously. After 50 adventures, shouldn't Annie have matured just a little? Or is the fact that things always work out somehow what keeps her from feeling like she has to change?
Anyway. Claire does like listening to these, but I can only read them with her if I edit Annie.
June 11, 2014
This is a typical Magic Tree House, except that Jack looses his temper with Annie. He tells her firmly that his opinions count too and it is high time he did so. But other than that, it is your typical little adventure, perfect for this age group. Just enough tension to keep it interesting, not nearly enough to scare anyone. All characters are nicely drawn but especially Bessie Houdini. Osborne has figured out a way to impart good examples of moral behavior without it being labeled as such, especially by her fans who absolutely love her books. Highly recommended for this age group!
April 24, 2015
FANTASTIC! And what an ending! Maybe the best ending of the series! Sorry but I don't have time to write any more on this one (just trust me, it's brilliant) because I'm off to google Harry Houdini (this happens every time I finish one of these books!). My interest is piqued and now I must know more!!! 5 STARS!!!
May 30, 2019
Oh nostalgia. These books are what got me into reading at a young age and as an ESL student. I always recommend these books to young readers who are interested in getting into chapter books. Just the right amount of history and fun, making you want more adventures with Jack and Annie.
January 21, 2022
I think that book was good bc I love magic.
February 21, 2021
Another great time travel adventure! Merlin has tasked them with discovering four secrets to greatness. This time brother-sister duo Jack and Annie travel back to early 1900's Coney Island to meet the Great Houdini. Jack learns a lesson about supporting and trusting his sister and discovers the second secret to greatness from a surprising source. This series not only let's imagination abound but also teaches great life lessons to kids.
January 3, 2020
„Writing is a miracle. You can travel anywhere in the world, to any time and any place and still be home in time for dinner“ Diese Worte der amerikanischen Schriftstellerin Mary Pope Osborne gelten nicht nur fürs Schreiben sondern auch für die Zeitreisen ihrer beiden jungen Protagonisten, den Kindern Philipp und Anne, die im Original Jack und Annie heißen, aus Pepper Hill ( im Original „Frog Creek“) in Pennsylvania, die mehrere Tage dauern können, während in der Wirklichkeit kaum einige Sekunden vergangen sind. Und in der Tat: zum Abendessen sind sie immer rechtzeitig zurück!
Ihre Reisen begannen sie 49 Bände zuvor, als sie nämlich im Wald ihres Heimatortes ein Baumhaus entdeckten. Neugierig kletterten sie hinauf und fanden sich, kaum dass sie wussten, wie ihnen geschah, in einer Zeit vor über 60 Millionen Jahren, mitten unter Dinosauriern! Es dauerte einige Bände, bis sie wussten, wer sie an entlegene Orte und in ferne Zeiten schickte: es war nämlich keine Geringere als die sagenumwobene Morgan, Bibliothekarin am Hofe des Königs Artus in Camelot. Später war es Merlin, der große Zauberer des mythischen Königs, der Morgans Platz einnahm und der mit den Baumhaus-Reisen der Kinder, wie Morgan auch, immer ganz bestimmte Aufträge verband, die sich jeweils über mehrere Bände der Serie erstreckten, die in den Vereinigten Staaten, aber auch in Deutschland und Japan, zu den erfolgreichsten Kinderbuch-Reihen gehören, weltweit über 50 Millionen mal und allein in Deutschland über 6 Millionen mal verkauft wurden. Und so empfiehlt es sich auch, die thematisch zusammengehörenden Bände nacheinander zu lesen!
„Das Geheimnis des Zauberkünstlers“ ( Originaltitel: „Hurry up, Houdini!“ ) ist Band 2 der Mission, bei der Philipp und Anne auf vier berühmte Personen treffen sollen, um von ihnen das Geheimnis wahrer Größe zu erfahren. Gerade sind sie aus Mazedonien zurückgekommen, wo sie Alexander dem Großen höchstselbst begegnet sind, und warten nun gespannt darauf, wohin Merlin sie als nächste schicken wird. Und es dauert auch nicht lange, da erfahren sie durch eine Notiz, die Merlin ihnen im Baumhaus hinterlassen hat, dass die nächste bekannte Persönlichkeit, mit der sie zusammentreffen sollen, der große Zauberer und Entfesselungskünstler Harry Houdini sein würde, der im Jahre 1908 im Vergnügungspark Coney Island an der Ostküste ihrer Heimat einen Auftritt haben würde.
Da den Geschwistern diese Epoche bereits ein wenig vertraut ist, denn eine vergangene Reise hatte sie ins San Francisco des Jahres 1900, kurz vor und während des großen Erdbebens geführt, fühlen sie sich auf sicherem Boden - und werden, der junge Leser vermerkt es mit Unwillen, ein wenig leichtsinnig, denn anstatt sich sofort auf den Weg zu machen, Karten für Houdinis Vorstellung zu kaufen, macht Anne, wie schon so oft zuvor, wieder einmal, was sie will, besteht darauf, zuerst die Attraktionen und Fahrgeschäfte zu besuchen und auszuprobieren, wodurch sie die Erfüllung ihrer eigentlichen Aufgabe verzögert. Diese Eigenmächtigkeit ist nichts Neues bei ihr, wie wir wissen; sie ist zwar ärgerlich und verkompliziert die Reisen der Kinder unnötig, führt aber, wenn auch auf Umwegen, dennoch immer irgendwie zum Ziel.
Aber, fragen sich Kritiker der Kinderbuchreihe - die es durchaus gibt! -, sollte die nervige Anne spätestens im Band 50 ( der im Deutschen der 48. Band ist, da „zu amerikanische Folgen“ hierzulande nicht veröffentlicht wurden ) nicht doch etwas dazugelernt haben, ein klein wenig reifer geworden sein? Schließlich ist sie keine sieben Jahre mehr alt, wie im ersten Band sondern dürfte inzwischen um die zehn sein.... Wie gut nur, dass Philipps Geduld sich diesmal in Grenzen hält, dass er auch mal auf seiner eigenen Meinung besteht! Wie auch immer – dank Annes Eigenmächtigkeiten wäre zwar beinahe nichts aus dem Zusammentreffen mit Houdini geworden, dafür aber dürfen sich die Geschwister höchstpersönlich als Zauberkünstler versuchen – das geheimnisvolle Fläschchen mit dem Morgennebel von Avalon, das ihnen Merlin mit auf die Reise gegeben hatte und das ihnen für eine kurze Zeit besondere Fähigkeiten verleiht, macht es möglich!
Schließlich stehen sie dem großen Meister Houdini von Angesicht zu Angesicht gegenüber – und das ist eine faustdicke Überraschung, über die hier Stillschweigen bewahrt werden soll, wie im übrigen auch über eine reizende Idee am Ende, um dem Magier etwas ganz Besonderes zu schenken, bevor sie wieder nach Pepper Hill zurückreisen....
Wenn man einmal absieht von dem irritierenden Verhalten der im vorliegenden Band besonders anstrengenden Anne, wie auch von der Tatsache, dass der von Mary Pope Osborne so sympathisch und bescheiden gezeichnete Houdini, der übrigens ein gebürtiger Ungar war, in der Realität als äußerst widersprüchlicher Charakter mit überzogener Geltungssucht galt, eifersüchtig auf jeden möglichen oder vermeintlichen Konkurrenten, also so gar nichts gemein hatte mit dem Houdini der Autorin ( was eher ungewöhnlich ist, denn sie bleibt normalerweise sehr nahe an den Charakterisierungen, die von den historischen Figuren, die sie auftreten lässt, überliefert sind ), ist auch „Das Geheimnis des Zauberkünstlers“ wieder lesens- und empfehlenswert, wenn auch keines der besseren Bände der Erfolgsserie. Die Phantasie und sehr angenehme Art des Schreibens und Erzählens der Autorin, die so gekonnt Sachinformationen mit spannender Unterhaltung zu verknüpfen weiß, macht aber auch einen schwächeren Band immer noch zu einem Lesevergnügen!
Ihre Reisen begannen sie 49 Bände zuvor, als sie nämlich im Wald ihres Heimatortes ein Baumhaus entdeckten. Neugierig kletterten sie hinauf und fanden sich, kaum dass sie wussten, wie ihnen geschah, in einer Zeit vor über 60 Millionen Jahren, mitten unter Dinosauriern! Es dauerte einige Bände, bis sie wussten, wer sie an entlegene Orte und in ferne Zeiten schickte: es war nämlich keine Geringere als die sagenumwobene Morgan, Bibliothekarin am Hofe des Königs Artus in Camelot. Später war es Merlin, der große Zauberer des mythischen Königs, der Morgans Platz einnahm und der mit den Baumhaus-Reisen der Kinder, wie Morgan auch, immer ganz bestimmte Aufträge verband, die sich jeweils über mehrere Bände der Serie erstreckten, die in den Vereinigten Staaten, aber auch in Deutschland und Japan, zu den erfolgreichsten Kinderbuch-Reihen gehören, weltweit über 50 Millionen mal und allein in Deutschland über 6 Millionen mal verkauft wurden. Und so empfiehlt es sich auch, die thematisch zusammengehörenden Bände nacheinander zu lesen!
„Das Geheimnis des Zauberkünstlers“ ( Originaltitel: „Hurry up, Houdini!“ ) ist Band 2 der Mission, bei der Philipp und Anne auf vier berühmte Personen treffen sollen, um von ihnen das Geheimnis wahrer Größe zu erfahren. Gerade sind sie aus Mazedonien zurückgekommen, wo sie Alexander dem Großen höchstselbst begegnet sind, und warten nun gespannt darauf, wohin Merlin sie als nächste schicken wird. Und es dauert auch nicht lange, da erfahren sie durch eine Notiz, die Merlin ihnen im Baumhaus hinterlassen hat, dass die nächste bekannte Persönlichkeit, mit der sie zusammentreffen sollen, der große Zauberer und Entfesselungskünstler Harry Houdini sein würde, der im Jahre 1908 im Vergnügungspark Coney Island an der Ostküste ihrer Heimat einen Auftritt haben würde.
Da den Geschwistern diese Epoche bereits ein wenig vertraut ist, denn eine vergangene Reise hatte sie ins San Francisco des Jahres 1900, kurz vor und während des großen Erdbebens geführt, fühlen sie sich auf sicherem Boden - und werden, der junge Leser vermerkt es mit Unwillen, ein wenig leichtsinnig, denn anstatt sich sofort auf den Weg zu machen, Karten für Houdinis Vorstellung zu kaufen, macht Anne, wie schon so oft zuvor, wieder einmal, was sie will, besteht darauf, zuerst die Attraktionen und Fahrgeschäfte zu besuchen und auszuprobieren, wodurch sie die Erfüllung ihrer eigentlichen Aufgabe verzögert. Diese Eigenmächtigkeit ist nichts Neues bei ihr, wie wir wissen; sie ist zwar ärgerlich und verkompliziert die Reisen der Kinder unnötig, führt aber, wenn auch auf Umwegen, dennoch immer irgendwie zum Ziel.
Aber, fragen sich Kritiker der Kinderbuchreihe - die es durchaus gibt! -, sollte die nervige Anne spätestens im Band 50 ( der im Deutschen der 48. Band ist, da „zu amerikanische Folgen“ hierzulande nicht veröffentlicht wurden ) nicht doch etwas dazugelernt haben, ein klein wenig reifer geworden sein? Schließlich ist sie keine sieben Jahre mehr alt, wie im ersten Band sondern dürfte inzwischen um die zehn sein.... Wie gut nur, dass Philipps Geduld sich diesmal in Grenzen hält, dass er auch mal auf seiner eigenen Meinung besteht! Wie auch immer – dank Annes Eigenmächtigkeiten wäre zwar beinahe nichts aus dem Zusammentreffen mit Houdini geworden, dafür aber dürfen sich die Geschwister höchstpersönlich als Zauberkünstler versuchen – das geheimnisvolle Fläschchen mit dem Morgennebel von Avalon, das ihnen Merlin mit auf die Reise gegeben hatte und das ihnen für eine kurze Zeit besondere Fähigkeiten verleiht, macht es möglich!
Schließlich stehen sie dem großen Meister Houdini von Angesicht zu Angesicht gegenüber – und das ist eine faustdicke Überraschung, über die hier Stillschweigen bewahrt werden soll, wie im übrigen auch über eine reizende Idee am Ende, um dem Magier etwas ganz Besonderes zu schenken, bevor sie wieder nach Pepper Hill zurückreisen....
Wenn man einmal absieht von dem irritierenden Verhalten der im vorliegenden Band besonders anstrengenden Anne, wie auch von der Tatsache, dass der von Mary Pope Osborne so sympathisch und bescheiden gezeichnete Houdini, der übrigens ein gebürtiger Ungar war, in der Realität als äußerst widersprüchlicher Charakter mit überzogener Geltungssucht galt, eifersüchtig auf jeden möglichen oder vermeintlichen Konkurrenten, also so gar nichts gemein hatte mit dem Houdini der Autorin ( was eher ungewöhnlich ist, denn sie bleibt normalerweise sehr nahe an den Charakterisierungen, die von den historischen Figuren, die sie auftreten lässt, überliefert sind ), ist auch „Das Geheimnis des Zauberkünstlers“ wieder lesens- und empfehlenswert, wenn auch keines der besseren Bände der Erfolgsserie. Die Phantasie und sehr angenehme Art des Schreibens und Erzählens der Autorin, die so gekonnt Sachinformationen mit spannender Unterhaltung zu verknüpfen weiß, macht aber auch einen schwächeren Band immer noch zu einem Lesevergnügen!
December 21, 2013
The kids, ages 7 and 9, gave this book 4 stars.
August 11, 2018
I like this book because it showed that Houdini escaping a pot of milk.
December 23, 2019
One of my favorite Magic Treehouse books so far.
August 17, 2020
In the magic treehouse series, not only in Merlin Missions, Jack and Annie found a magic treehouse. They soon discovered that in the magic treehouse there were lots of books and when they point to a picture in the book and make a wish to go there the magic treehouse just magically transports them there! They soon learned that the treehouse belongs to Morgan Le Fay from Camelot. Jack and Annie have helped Morgan with a humongous amount of missions in all places and time periods with the help of the magic treehouse. However in Merlin Missions it is not however Morgan that sends them on these missions. It is Merlin, a fantastic magician. During Merlin Missions, Jack and Annie make two friends named Teddy and Kathleen. They soon completed four missions that showed they could properly handle magic. On those missions, they were given a book of ten magic rhymes to use on four missions. Each rhyme can only be used once. Since they succeeded in those four missions, they were given the Wand of Dianthus. A magic wand that could create magic. Soon Merlin was not well, and not cheerful at all. Jack and Annie found four secrets of happiness for him, and now he is happy again. However the biggest thing that cheered him up was a little penguin named Penny Jack and Annie had gotten from their last mission to find the last secret of happiness for Merlin. That mission had taken place in Antarctica. Then, after those missions, they helped a girl named Augusta, Mozart, Louis Armstrong, and Charles Dickens. After that, they helped save Penny from a spell Teddy accidentally casted on him by finding four special objects. Last adventure, they figured out they were going to find four secrets of greatnesses for Merlin. They already found one, and this is their mission where they are going to find the second secret of greatness…
One day, Jack and Annie decided to visit the magic treehouse. There was nobody in there however, they found new sources for their mission. A ring to tell whether they found a secret of greatness, a research book, a note, and a potion. When you smell the potion, you get to have whatever talent you want for one hour. They also figured out their mission was going to take place in Coney Island. They pointed at the research book and made a wish to go there. Magically, within seconds, the magic treehouse landed at that place, the place their mission was going to take place. Soon, they figured out that they had landed in an amusement park. The note from Merlin said that they were going to learn a secret of greatness from Houdini, one of the greatest magicians ever lived! The master of escape! They got out of the treehouse and started their mission. Soon, they realized Houdini was going to have a performance in a theatre this very night! They would meet him at the theatre, hang around, and eventually learn a secret of greatness from him! It was still pretty early, so they would have lots and lots of time to get the tickets for the show. Jack wanted to get them early however, Annie was so attracted to all the great stuff in the amusement park. Annie convinced Jack to get a hotdog. So, they bought the hotdog with some money they arrived with. The hotdogs were very delicious! Then, Jack told Annie to get the tickets. However, then, Annie spotted ice cream! And when Annie wants to do something, you can’t stop her. Soon, she saw a rollercoaster or something. Before Jack agreed she went to pay the money. And Jack just had to dash after her. Then, they bumped into a cheerful couple named Bess and Harry. For some reason, their hats were hiding their faces. They talked for a while. Good thing, Annie promised Jack that they were going to buy tickets. Luckily, Annie kept her promise. So, after that they hurried to get where they were going to buy tickets. They hurried over to the place where they were selling tickets for Houdini’s show. The bad thing was, they soon received the astonishing news that it was sold out! Oh no! Now they can’t meet Houdini much less learn a secret of greatness from him! What can Jack and Annie do? Jack is now angry at Annie for not listening to him when they were not sold out! How can they complete their mission? Will they complete their mission?
One day, Jack and Annie decided to visit the magic treehouse. There was nobody in there however, they found new sources for their mission. A ring to tell whether they found a secret of greatness, a research book, a note, and a potion. When you smell the potion, you get to have whatever talent you want for one hour. They also figured out their mission was going to take place in Coney Island. They pointed at the research book and made a wish to go there. Magically, within seconds, the magic treehouse landed at that place, the place their mission was going to take place. Soon, they figured out that they had landed in an amusement park. The note from Merlin said that they were going to learn a secret of greatness from Houdini, one of the greatest magicians ever lived! The master of escape! They got out of the treehouse and started their mission. Soon, they realized Houdini was going to have a performance in a theatre this very night! They would meet him at the theatre, hang around, and eventually learn a secret of greatness from him! It was still pretty early, so they would have lots and lots of time to get the tickets for the show. Jack wanted to get them early however, Annie was so attracted to all the great stuff in the amusement park. Annie convinced Jack to get a hotdog. So, they bought the hotdog with some money they arrived with. The hotdogs were very delicious! Then, Jack told Annie to get the tickets. However, then, Annie spotted ice cream! And when Annie wants to do something, you can’t stop her. Soon, she saw a rollercoaster or something. Before Jack agreed she went to pay the money. And Jack just had to dash after her. Then, they bumped into a cheerful couple named Bess and Harry. For some reason, their hats were hiding their faces. They talked for a while. Good thing, Annie promised Jack that they were going to buy tickets. Luckily, Annie kept her promise. So, after that they hurried to get where they were going to buy tickets. They hurried over to the place where they were selling tickets for Houdini’s show. The bad thing was, they soon received the astonishing news that it was sold out! Oh no! Now they can’t meet Houdini much less learn a secret of greatness from him! What can Jack and Annie do? Jack is now angry at Annie for not listening to him when they were not sold out! How can they complete their mission? Will they complete their mission?
November 17, 2019
This story is about two siblings Jack and Annie that go on an adventure on their magic tree house. This time their mission was to discover Houndi the greatest escape artist's message of greatness. Once they arrive they are in Conley island and notice they have some spare time before the Houdini show. They ride some of the rides and eat some yummy food and before you know it, it was time for the show. They run to the ticket office and unfourtuntly it is a sold out show. Annie has an idea when she over hears the owner say they don't have an opening act. They would be there opening act and it will get them a chance to see Houdini. Jack doesn't agree and leaves until he notices he has the magic mist and Annie would be able to do any magic tricks without it. He hears back to her just in time for the show to start. Jack and Annie get on stage and give the crowd a great proformace. When they were done Houdini is no where to be found. They had to go back and cover intell he arrived but they were running out of magic. No more magic for Jack and Annie the audience boo them. Houdini finally arrives and puts on a great performace to the roariing crowd. Jack and Annie still don't know the message of greatness. They wait for Houdini outside his dressing room not knowing he had already left through a secret pathway. They remember Houdini and Beth saying ice cream is great after a show. They hurry to the ice cream shop and see them at a bench eating ice cream. They seat next to them and a crowd recognizes Houdini and begin asking him questions. Beth begans to tell Jack and Annie that magic never came easy to Houdini he worked really hard everyday and read all the books about magic. Thats how he became the greatest of this time. Jack ring began to glow that was the message Hardwork. They could go home now. Houdini said their isn't something that impresses him anymore since her has see and done it all. Jack told him about the magic tree house and how this would be their magic trick to show Houdini as the were leaving the tree house began to spin and then disaprear right in front of Houdini and Beth. Jack and Annie where back home and ready to eat dinner.
June 16, 2024
This book was just okay. I read it in a day with a friend and mind you I am blatantly not in the targeted age range but it was undeniably mid. It starts a bit slowly which is something I can forgive but It also feels vaguely racially charged at times ??? Aside from that massive womp womp this book also has the addition of brushing off very obvious issues between characters. The brother and sister have a large fight in this book (or at least what seems like it should be) with Jack confronting Annie with disregarding his opinions and other very real issues. The book resolves this however by Annie basically telling him to “suck on it” and that she doesn’t think it’s a big deal, a couple sorrys later and it’s like it never happened. I was also interested in the possibly misguided feminist agenda this book was pushing. I respect the reveal that Bess Houdini was the one the kids need to learn from instead of her husband but she did so by explaining her husbands achievements, not hers. It left me wondering if this was really what the women want.
Furthermore it is my understanding that you can barely leave a car unattended in some parts of New York and this book attempts at making you believe that Jack and Annie were able to leave their tree house alone in Coney Island at night surrounded by scammers and carnies. Apparently them not getting robbed was the real miracle.
Also I firmly believe that Butch and Hank had something going on.
Book was fine, 2/10.
Furthermore it is my understanding that you can barely leave a car unattended in some parts of New York and this book attempts at making you believe that Jack and Annie were able to leave their tree house alone in Coney Island at night surrounded by scammers and carnies. Apparently them not getting robbed was the real miracle.
Also I firmly believe that Butch and Hank had something going on.
Book was fine, 2/10.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2023
Magic Tree House Hurry Up, Houdini! Houdini is the best escape artist, and he's super famous! He can get out of tight spots like handcuffs and neck cuffs, it's amazing!
In the book, they say the secret to Houdini's greatness is hard work and practice. He learned a special secret to be the best, and it's really cool! But sometimes, he's a little late to his shows, and the store manager gets worried. They call him "Hurry Up Houdini" like pancakes because fans might throw food if he's late!
The story gets a bit creepy, but that's what makes it exciting! Houdini gets stuck in something, but he's an escape artist, so he gets out eventually. Phew!
The lesson in this book is awesome. If you want to be great at something, you have to work hard and practice a lot. And you need to have a meaning and purpose in what you do. It's a really important lesson.
I loved reading "Hurry Up, Houdini!" It's full of magic and adventure. If you like mysteries and learning about amazing people like Houdini, you should totally read it! So much fun!
If you're a fan of this book, you won't want to miss my full review on my YouTube channel.
https://youtu.be/8aQHZlMv1Gk
In the book, they say the secret to Houdini's greatness is hard work and practice. He learned a special secret to be the best, and it's really cool! But sometimes, he's a little late to his shows, and the store manager gets worried. They call him "Hurry Up Houdini" like pancakes because fans might throw food if he's late!
The story gets a bit creepy, but that's what makes it exciting! Houdini gets stuck in something, but he's an escape artist, so he gets out eventually. Phew!
The lesson in this book is awesome. If you want to be great at something, you have to work hard and practice a lot. And you need to have a meaning and purpose in what you do. It's a really important lesson.
I loved reading "Hurry Up, Houdini!" It's full of magic and adventure. If you like mysteries and learning about amazing people like Houdini, you should totally read it! So much fun!
If you're a fan of this book, you won't want to miss my full review on my YouTube channel.
https://youtu.be/8aQHZlMv1Gk
June 10, 2024
Usually, Annie is helpful and fun and a bit crazy. But in this story, I got really irritated at Annie. She was super annoying and had the gall to call Jack a grouch. Well missy I'd be a grouch too if you kept doing what YOU wanted instead of listening to me. I felt back for Jack in this story. He always gets dragged into Annie's crazy half-assed not plans because she goes head-in first and doesn't think. And in this story she really doesn't care about Jack in the least bit it was Jack's kindness and care for this sister that he even came back to help her. And Annie didn't even seem to care. I think Morgan and Merlin need to pound some sense into Annie instead of letting her run amok in the missions. The next future book should be about Annie finally becoming a bit more level-headed like Jack. Now I'm not saying we need two Jacks because he himself has issues sometimes with being too much of a worry-wart but at the same time sometimes we need to be clear-minded and not just rush to do what we want and leave what we SHOULD do for later. Sorry, Annie disappointed in/with you! Annie needs to hold her horses.
August 23, 2025
Annie usually drives me nuts but this one was probably the worst. I love her connection to animals (not featured in this book), but her impulsivity and lack of concern for Jack really grated on me this time. Character development can be seen in Jack over the course of the series, but Annie really could use a little growing up. Of course, it always works out… because Magic.
All else aside, this is another fun story. I love that the kids are great at forgiving one another and working together to support each other on each of their missions. And I love the peek into early 20th century Coney Island and “meeting” even a simple version of Harry and Bess Houdini!
I also love the little gem the kids left Harry with at the end. True wonder is a gift!
All else aside, this is another fun story. I love that the kids are great at forgiving one another and working together to support each other on each of their missions. And I love the peek into early 20th century Coney Island and “meeting” even a simple version of Harry and Bess Houdini!
I also love the little gem the kids left Harry with at the end. True wonder is a gift!
February 5, 2018
My class voted for this book for our class Read-Aloud. There were several kids that were interested
in Harry Houdini. Now, I've read almost all of these either with my own kids when they were in elementary school or with my school kids. This was an OK book but not my favorite Magic Treehouse book. Kids that love reading this series will like it, but for me the story dragged a little and wasn't as exciting as some of the others have been. I do suggest this series to my students that are starting to read chapter books. They have a way of getting kids excited to read fantasy and time travel books which are some of my favorite genres to read.
in Harry Houdini. Now, I've read almost all of these either with my own kids when they were in elementary school or with my school kids. This was an OK book but not my favorite Magic Treehouse book. Kids that love reading this series will like it, but for me the story dragged a little and wasn't as exciting as some of the others have been. I do suggest this series to my students that are starting to read chapter books. They have a way of getting kids excited to read fantasy and time travel books which are some of my favorite genres to read.
November 3, 2019
In this episode, Jack and Annie are on anther mission for Merlin seeking the ‘secret of greatness’. (BTW, Merlin’s magic mist makes them great at anything for one hour.) Jack carries a ‘ring of truth’ which must glow in the presence of greatness. In this episode, Harry Houdini helps. (Hint for this lesson: Practice, practice, practice.)
Once again, the author relates to children and provides wonderful life lessons. I’ll keep reading the series as long the fellow children readers keep reading the books (which, I of course, encourage).
Once again, the author relates to children and provides wonderful life lessons. I’ll keep reading the series as long the fellow children readers keep reading the books (which, I of course, encourage).
March 16, 2021
Hurry Up, Houdini! by Mary Pope Osborne is the fiftieth book in the Magic Tree House series. This series is great for young readers to be introduced to a book in a series. In this book, Jack and Annie, meet Harry Houdini. They participated in the magic show and learn about greatness. This book is a great opportunity for young students to learn to love reading. Since the book is based off a famous magician, the students will enjoy reading it and learning something new. This book is perfect to read during independent time and will encourage students to read books they are interested in.
July 16, 2021
This is the second mission to find a secret of greatness. This time, they learn it from Harry and Bess Houdini and it is hard work. They also use the mist to become great magicians for one hour. This one does not have a fact tracker, but rather a magic trick book. Magic Tricks from the Tree House
October 12, 2016
Osborne, M. P., & Murdocca, S. (2013). Hurry up, Houdini! New York, NY: Random House.
Summary: Jack and Annie are at it again in another adventure, this time however has a tad bit more magic. They venture back to 1908, where they must find Houdini to find another secret to greatness. Coney Island is filled with visitors galore, which makes it quite hard to find someone in. That is until they come across a poster that tells them that Houdini has a magic show tonight. Seeing’s that they have plenty of time before it is night they enjoy Coney Island by riding on a roller coaster and eating plenty of food. Unfortunately, when they go to get tickets they are all sold out, but a solution quickly emerges. They will be part of the show and open up for Houdini, then after words they can ask him about the secret. After a great show they realized that Houdini was someone that they already met and that the secret to greatness is hard work.
Questions:
1) Why do you think the secret to greatness is hard work?
2) What are you great at and how can you become greater?
3) Do you know any magic? If so what do you know, if not what do you wish you could do?
4) How do you think Jack and Annie felt when they found out they already met Houdini?
5) Do you think that there are great people among us that appear to be average? If so who are they and why are they great?
Summary: Jack and Annie are at it again in another adventure, this time however has a tad bit more magic. They venture back to 1908, where they must find Houdini to find another secret to greatness. Coney Island is filled with visitors galore, which makes it quite hard to find someone in. That is until they come across a poster that tells them that Houdini has a magic show tonight. Seeing’s that they have plenty of time before it is night they enjoy Coney Island by riding on a roller coaster and eating plenty of food. Unfortunately, when they go to get tickets they are all sold out, but a solution quickly emerges. They will be part of the show and open up for Houdini, then after words they can ask him about the secret. After a great show they realized that Houdini was someone that they already met and that the secret to greatness is hard work.
Questions:
1) Why do you think the secret to greatness is hard work?
2) What are you great at and how can you become greater?
3) Do you know any magic? If so what do you know, if not what do you wish you could do?
4) How do you think Jack and Annie felt when they found out they already met Houdini?
5) Do you think that there are great people among us that appear to be average? If so who are they and why are they great?
August 10, 2018
My daughter and I continue with this lovely series for children. She liked this one because, there are magic tricks, secret compartments and their friend turned out to be Harry Houdini. Even as I enjoy reading this with her. I do have to alternate after a couple, because for me they become a bit formulaic. It does not keep us from enjoying them.
September 28, 2021
Jack and Annie are transported to Coney Island to find a truth about greatness from The Great Houdini. While there they try out the hot dogs, go on a ride, and experience being magicians for an hour. They meet The Great Harry Houdini and his wife/apprentice, Bess. They learn from Bess what the greatest truth is about Houdini's work....."Hard Work".
April 18, 2022
I found this book to be very well written and easy to follow. The inclusion of history with also a bit of crazy. They portrayed Houdini in a great way and it was fun to see a different take on his magic. I personally did not enjoy this magic tree house book as much as some others. This book is good for children and keeps the reader interested. I always love a good adventure book!
December 1, 2022
I enjoyed this one. They learned that even though they get into fights, they will always be loyal to one another and get through what they need to do. I wish that many siblings were like that. They will always have a bond that not a lot of people have with their siblings for the rest of their life.
December 5, 2022
This was a nice book. And it is very true the great Houdini was an amazing man. I also love how Annie and Jack work together On a mission. Yes It is it is true in this book anyways not Annie was not cooperative but in the end Jack said okay fine. I loved the book a lot. And Houdini did not give the a shower but his wife did. And at the end of the book the moral was HARD WORK.
January 24, 2025
(4☆ Would recommend)
I started this series after reading the original Magic Treehouse series. I like how this series includes not just Morgan, but Merlin, Teddy, & Kathleen, too. I like how Jack & Annie get to participate in these books a little more than the original series by using magical items. I also like how these books are longer. It is more story to enjoy. I really enjoyed this book. Would recommend.
I started this series after reading the original Magic Treehouse series. I like how this series includes not just Morgan, but Merlin, Teddy, & Kathleen, too. I like how Jack & Annie get to participate in these books a little more than the original series by using magical items. I also like how these books are longer. It is more story to enjoy. I really enjoyed this book. Would recommend.
June 27, 2017
Early 1900's in New York, Jack and Annie perform using their magic for an hour just before Harry Houdini on a mission to discover another quality of greatness - this time, spoiler, hard work.
A great story for those wanting to perform, be magicians or just love Houdini!
A great story for those wanting to perform, be magicians or just love Houdini!
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