Houdini the Handcuff King by Jason Lutes and Nick Bartozzi

What would it be like to be able to escape from inescapable, often horrendously dangerous situations? No, this does not refer to chemistry exams or other finals – this means extricating yourself from a straightjacket while hanging upside-down from a multiple-story building, or removing confining chains from your body while swimming out of a river. Cartoonist team Jason Lutes and Nick Bartozzi pay tribute to the foremost of escape artists, Harry Houdini, in their graphic novel Houdini the Handcuff King.

          Self-proclaimed as the “Handcuff King” due to his incredible knowledge of and ability to escape from all kinds of restraining devices, Harry Houdini is all about self-promotion. His latest stunt is specifically meant to draw interest in his stage performances, but will not be executed anywhere near a stage. With the help of his wife Bess, Houdini plans to dive off the Harvard Bridge in Cambridge, Massachusetts, while fully shackled and in front of a tremendous crowd, and miraculously free himself to swim to the surface. Will the icy water and the securely locked irons prove too much for his mysterious powers? And, if he defeats these obstacles, how on earth will he do it?

          Lutes and Bartozzi provide fascinating speculations as to how the legendary magician succeeded in constantly baffling his audience by his spectacular feats as well as a charming depiction of the early 20^th century. The mostly black-and-white pictures and witty text are a fantastic combination that work together to introduce readers to a fascinating figure of American showmanship. For readers who are interested in further information, the end pages of the book give explanations as to the history and culture of Houdini's time period, accompanied by relevant illustrations from the story.