THE   AMAZING WONDER MOUSE ARTHUR MARTELLO There are some magic classics that have a fitful existence. They're  popular for a while, then inexplicably disappear, only to reappear to surprise a new generation of magicians with their inherent potential.

There's no way of tracing the origins of the Wonder Mouse back through the centuries. Like the original dancing handkerchief,   skeleton, coin, spoon and walking stick, the Wonder Mouse comes from  a time when magicians puzzled audiences by bringing an inanimate   object to life and then interacting with the animated object, often in a humorous fashion.

For those not familiar with the effect, the magician introduces a small toy mouse which suddenly seems to come to life, running across  the hands, up and down themagician's arms and otherwise cavorting about.

The last time I saw the Wonder Mouse was about 15 years ago on a  street corner in midtown Manhattan. The little old man doing the  effect was so good at it I bought two. Now of course such street  vendors and their magic mice have been banned to improve the quality  of life.

Which brings me to the current incarnation of the venerable  mouse. 'The Amazing Wonder Mouse' is the work of Arthur Martello.   Supplied is a genuine plastic Wonder Mouse measuring about 1-1/2"  long with a rubbery tail about 2" long that greatly improves the  effect since it twitches as the mouse moves. Martello has made some interesting improvements to the mouse which are detailed in a mini  six page booklet complete with color photographs. Also included is  the secret gaff needed for imperceptible animation.

While those inclined to boorishness will no doubt seek out the  Wonder Mouse for its 'eek' quality, there is more to this effect   than just startling the spectators. Martello explains the basic moves as well as some variations and the way he has rigged the gaff allows for a seamless illusion.

If making an inanimate object suddenly take on a magical life of  its own strikes you as a fascinating illusion premise, 'The Amazing Wonder Mouse' is the perfect prop to get you started. -- Robinson 'The Amazing Wonder Mouse,' Martello Magic.              $4.00 each or two for $6.00 postpaid. Available from              Martello Magic, P0 Box 82, Halcottsville, NY 12438. E-Mail: martello@catskill.net; web: arthurmartello.com

This review was reprinted from allmagic.com  copyright, 2001,  Richard Robinson

Please note that the special price of 2 for $6 is no longer available as of May 1, 2001