Instead of retelling the standard Houdini anecdotes, Mr. Silverman examines the evidence with a fresh eye and a sleuthlike determination not to be snowed by Houdini's notorious "improvements" of the facts. Best of all, he is able to place Houdini in the context of his own times--and ours.... To uncover so many previously unknown details of the master mystifier's life would be enough to merit applause. To examine Houdini and his world with such originality and depth deserves a standing ovation.