A magician learns a lesson about faith in this colorful story for all ages. Featuring original illustrations from school children, Bigger and Better paints a picture of faith, peace, and true happiness.

About the author

David Russell first became interested in magic tricks at the age of seven. In first grade, he checked out a book at the Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic School library about magic tricks. He brought it home and with the help of his dad, learned his first sleight of hand.

He has been a fan of magic tricks ever since. Russell is the youngest on record to perform Houdini’s “water torture cell” when he barely escaped with his life at age 16. He appeared at the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood and the Magic Island in Newport Beach, California, where he shared the stage with the likes of Harry Blackstone, Jr., and Lance Burton.

Author David Russell entered the insurance business in 1985, holding a variety of positions from agent to vice-president. However, it was not material success that Russell believes blessed him the most. Rather, failure helped him understand the greatest gift of all. Through these experiences he re-discovered his Faith. Today, Russell invests time sharing his talents so others may also know the peace beyond understanding available in Jesus Christ and the Catholic Faith.

Russell has been married 25 years. He resides in Knoxville, Tennessee, with his wife, Gloria, and their children.

In the news

No trick: students illustrate magician's new book (March 20, 2011)
The East Tennessee Catholic
Magician David Russell of St. John Neumann in Farragut recently enlisted the help of several young illustrators in two Catholic schools to publish a children’s book, proceeds of which will benefit his parish school and Knoxville Catholic High School.

The author and illustrators appeared at Borders in Farragut on March 12 to sign copies of Bigger and Better (Leonine Publishers, 2010).
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