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Make Magic: The Book of Inspiration You Didn't Know You Needed
"If you really want to shock the world, unleash your kindness."
Based on bestselling author Brad Meltzer’s viral commencement speech for his son’s graduating class at the University of Michigan, Make Magic is the little book of hope for anyone who has ever wished for more. More authenticity. More empathy. More gratitude. A more fulfilling life.
With charming, thoughtful insights from his remarkable life and career, Meltzer uses magic as allegory, sharing the secret that there are only four types of magic
1) you make something appear,
2) you make something disappear,
3) you make two things switch places, and
4) you turn one thing into something else—the hardest trick of all, transformation.
Embracing each of these easy-to-follow tricks—and unleashing your kindness and empathy—will inspire you to craft a life filled with wonder and awe.
Make Magic is an uplifting message from one of today’s most inspiring voices.
Based on bestselling author Brad Meltzer’s viral commencement speech for his son’s graduating class at the University of Michigan, Make Magic is the little book of hope for anyone who has ever wished for more. More authenticity. More empathy. More gratitude. A more fulfilling life.
With charming, thoughtful insights from his remarkable life and career, Meltzer uses magic as allegory, sharing the secret that there are only four types of magic
1) you make something appear,
2) you make something disappear,
3) you make two things switch places, and
4) you turn one thing into something else—the hardest trick of all, transformation.
Embracing each of these easy-to-follow tricks—and unleashing your kindness and empathy—will inspire you to craft a life filled with wonder and awe.
Make Magic is an uplifting message from one of today’s most inspiring voices.
110 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 4, 2025
79 people are currently reading
3951 people want to read
About the author
Brad Meltzer
322 books7,398 followersBrad Meltzer is the Emmy-nominated, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Lightning Rod, The Escape Artist, and eleven other bestselling thrillers. He also writes non-fiction books like The JFK Conspiracy, about a secret plot to kill JFK before he was sworn in – and the Ordinary People Change the World kids book series, which he does with Chris Eliopoulos and inspired the PBS KIDS TV show, Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. His newest kids books are We are the Beatles, We are the Beatles, and I am Simone Biles. His newest inspirational book is Make Magic, based on his viral commencement address.
In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.
He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.
He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.
For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.
His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!
His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.
His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.
His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.
He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.
Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who
In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.
He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.
He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.
For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.
His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!
His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.
His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.
His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.
He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.
Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who
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January 11, 2025This is based on the speech the author gave at my daughter's 2023 graduation from the University of Michigan. It was unequivocally the best speech I've ever heard. The written version won't be as good, especially since there were some surprises, but I'm glad it's being made accessible!
Watch the speech here.
Watch the speech here.
May 20, 2025
This is a 2024 college graduation speech with some sweet messages about creating magic. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
"What you hold in your hands is the commencement address I delivered when my son graduated from the University of Michigan in 2024 (p. 2)."
"Thank you for the people who believe in the thirteenth seed (p. 3)."
"This was their first proper graduation since middle school (p. 5)."
"Whatever the outcome, there they were, in the fourteenth row--my son in the aisle seat, staring straight at me. It was all that mattered (p. 6)."
"I thought I knew where all the high points would be--where the jokes would land and the laughter would come. As usual, I was completely wrong (p. 10)."
"A wave of energy nearly knocked me over as seventy thousand people interrupted me, refusing to let me speak, breaking into spontaneous applause. Because of kindness. Because of empathy. It had nothing to do with me. It's simply that, as a culture, we're exhausted by venom and cruelty--and we're starving for kindness and empathy (p. 12)."
"'If you really want to shock the world, unleash your kindness' (p. 13)."
"Learn the Uber driver's name. If you're nice to me and a jerk to the waiter, you're a jerk (p. 22)."
"Some things are unexplainable. They're just magic (p. 23)."
"They're just four types of tricks:
1. You make something appear.
2. You make something disappear.
3. You make two things switch places.
4. And finally, you change one thing into something else (p. 26)."
"What you need to make appear is YOU. I'm not just talking about showing up, but making the best version of you appear (p. 28)."
"I realized I wanted to be a novelist. And my girlfriend? She didn't laugh at that... That next book did get published. I owe her forever for that lift she gave me (p. 34)."
"Let's hear it for those who got us to this day! (p. 34)"
"When someone you trust sees your potential and says they believe you can be that person, it opens up a path and inspires you to become that version of yourself (p. 35)."
"That fear this woman brought out in me? It fueled me. It drove me (p. 40)."
"Make your fear disappear but not because fear is bad. Use your fear. Harness it. Let them underestimate you (p. 43)."
"That's what empathy is--switching places with someone else and putting yourself in their shoes (p. 46)."
"Mercy--and empathy--is what she showed us (p. 49)."
"What takes strength is switching places and putting yourself in someone else's shoes (p. 51)."
"Do not shut down. We need you. If you shut down, we're in trouble (p. 52)."
"Every family at your graduation has someone who they wish could be here today (p. 53)."
"As you go through life, every person you encounter is battling something you can't see (p. 54)."
"'One day, someone is going to hug you so tight that all of your broken pieces will fit back together' (p. 56)."
"The world needs more empathy, more humility, and, certainly, more decency. If you really want to shock the world, unleash your kindness (p. 57)."
"The hardest trick of all. Transformation (p. 59)."
"Never stop changing (p. 61)."
"When you write things in stone, everything becomes hard and brittle and starts collecting dust (p. 63)."
"As you start your next chapter, write in pencil and be unafraid to use the eraser (p. 64)."
"The most sophisticated and intelligent people I know are the ones willing to challenge their thinking and admit there's more to learn (p. 66)."
"Life will absolutely not be what you think it will be. It will be hard and wonderful and messy and rewarding, with more versions of you than you think possible (p. 67)."
"Keep transforming, learning, and never think you know it all. Instead, see yourself in the hall of mirrors--endless possibilities (p. 69)."
"Make the best version of YOU appear, make your fear disappear and harness it, switch places to find empathy, and never stop transforming (p. 71)."
"They take effort. They take you. Things don't just appear or disappear by themselves (p. 73)."
"Making magic, figuring out who you are, takes work, time, and intentionality... that's how magic is: full commitment to the bit, or it all falls apart (p. 74)."
"What you'll remember more than anything are those people who cheered for you along the way (p. 76)."
"Magic is never for yourself. It's a gift you give other people (p. 82)."
"Real magic, the most powerful magic... that comes from making memories. Memories that endure, like cherished friendships. Memories so powerful that even though they happened years ago, you can feel them now... see them now... conjured out of thin air (p. 82)."
"Sometimes magic is hiding right in front of you the entire time (p. 85)."
"This book was put in your hands because someone loves and believes in you. And they know one thing for sure (p. 91)."
"Don't ever forget: The only people who see magic are the ones who look for it (p. 97)."
"What you hold in your hands is the commencement address I delivered when my son graduated from the University of Michigan in 2024 (p. 2)."
"Thank you for the people who believe in the thirteenth seed (p. 3)."
"This was their first proper graduation since middle school (p. 5)."
"Whatever the outcome, there they were, in the fourteenth row--my son in the aisle seat, staring straight at me. It was all that mattered (p. 6)."
"I thought I knew where all the high points would be--where the jokes would land and the laughter would come. As usual, I was completely wrong (p. 10)."
"A wave of energy nearly knocked me over as seventy thousand people interrupted me, refusing to let me speak, breaking into spontaneous applause. Because of kindness. Because of empathy. It had nothing to do with me. It's simply that, as a culture, we're exhausted by venom and cruelty--and we're starving for kindness and empathy (p. 12)."
"'If you really want to shock the world, unleash your kindness' (p. 13)."
"Learn the Uber driver's name. If you're nice to me and a jerk to the waiter, you're a jerk (p. 22)."
"Some things are unexplainable. They're just magic (p. 23)."
"They're just four types of tricks:
1. You make something appear.
2. You make something disappear.
3. You make two things switch places.
4. And finally, you change one thing into something else (p. 26)."
"What you need to make appear is YOU. I'm not just talking about showing up, but making the best version of you appear (p. 28)."
"I realized I wanted to be a novelist. And my girlfriend? She didn't laugh at that... That next book did get published. I owe her forever for that lift she gave me (p. 34)."
"Let's hear it for those who got us to this day! (p. 34)"
"When someone you trust sees your potential and says they believe you can be that person, it opens up a path and inspires you to become that version of yourself (p. 35)."
"That fear this woman brought out in me? It fueled me. It drove me (p. 40)."
"Make your fear disappear but not because fear is bad. Use your fear. Harness it. Let them underestimate you (p. 43)."
"That's what empathy is--switching places with someone else and putting yourself in their shoes (p. 46)."
"Mercy--and empathy--is what she showed us (p. 49)."
"What takes strength is switching places and putting yourself in someone else's shoes (p. 51)."
"Do not shut down. We need you. If you shut down, we're in trouble (p. 52)."
"Every family at your graduation has someone who they wish could be here today (p. 53)."
"As you go through life, every person you encounter is battling something you can't see (p. 54)."
"'One day, someone is going to hug you so tight that all of your broken pieces will fit back together' (p. 56)."
"The world needs more empathy, more humility, and, certainly, more decency. If you really want to shock the world, unleash your kindness (p. 57)."
"The hardest trick of all. Transformation (p. 59)."
"Never stop changing (p. 61)."
"When you write things in stone, everything becomes hard and brittle and starts collecting dust (p. 63)."
"As you start your next chapter, write in pencil and be unafraid to use the eraser (p. 64)."
"The most sophisticated and intelligent people I know are the ones willing to challenge their thinking and admit there's more to learn (p. 66)."
"Life will absolutely not be what you think it will be. It will be hard and wonderful and messy and rewarding, with more versions of you than you think possible (p. 67)."
"Keep transforming, learning, and never think you know it all. Instead, see yourself in the hall of mirrors--endless possibilities (p. 69)."
"Make the best version of YOU appear, make your fear disappear and harness it, switch places to find empathy, and never stop transforming (p. 71)."
"They take effort. They take you. Things don't just appear or disappear by themselves (p. 73)."
"Making magic, figuring out who you are, takes work, time, and intentionality... that's how magic is: full commitment to the bit, or it all falls apart (p. 74)."
"What you'll remember more than anything are those people who cheered for you along the way (p. 76)."
"Magic is never for yourself. It's a gift you give other people (p. 82)."
"Real magic, the most powerful magic... that comes from making memories. Memories that endure, like cherished friendships. Memories so powerful that even though they happened years ago, you can feel them now... see them now... conjured out of thin air (p. 82)."
"Sometimes magic is hiding right in front of you the entire time (p. 85)."
"This book was put in your hands because someone loves and believes in you. And they know one thing for sure (p. 91)."
"Don't ever forget: The only people who see magic are the ones who look for it (p. 97)."
Read
May 8, 2025Thank you Mom and Dad for this
I miss college :(
I miss college :(
September 22, 2025
I love commencement addresses as books, so when I spotted this on the library's new books shelf, I knew I had to give it a try. Empathy and kindness are prominent themes in Make Magic, and it's got several memorable and quotable passages. Fun little read that you can finish in 30 minutes or less. Now I need to try some of Brad Meltzer's fiction.
October 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Make Magic: The Book of Inspiration is a beautiful little spark of positivity. Every page feels like a gentle reminder to believe in yourself and create your own magic. Brad Meltzer’s words, first shared in his graduation speech, carry even more weight here. Uplifting, warm, and the perfect book to gift or keep close when you need encouragement.
Make Magic: The Book of Inspiration is a beautiful little spark of positivity. Every page feels like a gentle reminder to believe in yourself and create your own magic. Brad Meltzer’s words, first shared in his graduation speech, carry even more weight here. Uplifting, warm, and the perfect book to gift or keep close when you need encouragement.
July 8, 2025
cutie little book my parents got me
Read
August 17, 2025Gift for graduates. 🎓
December 27, 2025
Wonderful words from Brad Meltzer. I wish he had spoken at my college graduation so many years ago. I could have used these words to spur me on to create my own magic.
April 4, 2025
Very short but so true. I’m buying some copies to give as gifts. I hope they read it!
August 29, 2025
Very good commencement address for all of us, since we are all commencing the rest of our lives.
April 14, 2025
Not What I Expected
Unbelievably short. Based on the advertising, I was disappointed with its brevity. I wanted more development. More in depth. I hope the author recognizes this shortcoming.
Unbelievably short. Based on the advertising, I was disappointed with its brevity. I wanted more development. More in depth. I hope the author recognizes this shortcoming.
April 12, 2025
Not a lot of substance here. Lot of large fonts and cliches.
January 10, 2026
Brad Meltzer is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of thirteen thrillers, six nonfiction books, and the host of History Channel’s Lost History. His work often blends storytelling with themes of character, leadership, and moral courage.
Candidly, when I finished Brad Meltzer’s Make Magic, my first reaction was, this didn’t change how I think about kindness, empathy, or compassion.
And that’s true.
Adapted from Meltzer’s 2024 commencement speech at the University of Michigan—delivered at his son’s graduation—this is a fast, one-sitting read (30-45 minutes) built on familiar truths. If you’ve spent years reading philosophy, Stoicism, leadership, or personal development, there’s nothing here that feels groundbreaking.
But after sitting with it, I realized that critique might actually miss the book’s purpose.
Make Magic isn’t trying to advance wisdom. It’s trying to protect it.
The Stoics reminded us long ago that we don’t suffer from a lack of principles—we suffer from forgetting to practice the ones we already know.
In a culture that rewards cynicism, outrage, and performative virtue, Meltzer does something quietly radical: he speaks plainly about decency without irony. No hot takes. No intellectual gymnastics. Just a steady reminder that small acts of kindness, showing up for others, and choosing empathy still matter—especially for young adults stepping into a world that often discourages those choices.
For someone like me, this book serves as reinforcement, not revelation. But for graduates and emerging professionals, it may arrive at exactly the right moment.
So here’s the real question the book raises—not whether it’s “deep” enough, but whether we’ve become so conditioned to chasing new frameworks that we undervalue simple truths when they’re stated clearly and sincerely.
I’m curious how others see it: Do we actually need new ideas—or do we need better reminders of the ones we already know?
Recommended rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
C. Francis, 01/10/2026
Candidly, when I finished Brad Meltzer’s Make Magic, my first reaction was, this didn’t change how I think about kindness, empathy, or compassion.
And that’s true.
Adapted from Meltzer’s 2024 commencement speech at the University of Michigan—delivered at his son’s graduation—this is a fast, one-sitting read (30-45 minutes) built on familiar truths. If you’ve spent years reading philosophy, Stoicism, leadership, or personal development, there’s nothing here that feels groundbreaking.
But after sitting with it, I realized that critique might actually miss the book’s purpose.
Make Magic isn’t trying to advance wisdom. It’s trying to protect it.
The Stoics reminded us long ago that we don’t suffer from a lack of principles—we suffer from forgetting to practice the ones we already know.
In a culture that rewards cynicism, outrage, and performative virtue, Meltzer does something quietly radical: he speaks plainly about decency without irony. No hot takes. No intellectual gymnastics. Just a steady reminder that small acts of kindness, showing up for others, and choosing empathy still matter—especially for young adults stepping into a world that often discourages those choices.
For someone like me, this book serves as reinforcement, not revelation. But for graduates and emerging professionals, it may arrive at exactly the right moment.
So here’s the real question the book raises—not whether it’s “deep” enough, but whether we’ve become so conditioned to chasing new frameworks that we undervalue simple truths when they’re stated clearly and sincerely.
I’m curious how others see it: Do we actually need new ideas—or do we need better reminders of the ones we already know?
Recommended rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
C. Francis, 01/10/2026
March 21, 2025
Creating a Life of Meaning and Purpose!
Brad Meltzer’s Make Magic: The Book of Inspiration You Didn't Know You Needed is exactly that—a book that feels like a warm, guiding light in a world that often feels dim with negativity. From the very first page, Meltzer’s wisdom and heartfelt storytelling captivate, offering not just encouragement but a true blueprint for a more meaningful life.
What makes this book extraordinary is its ability to distill deep truths into simple yet powerful lessons. Using the metaphor of magic, Meltzer reveals how small shifts in perspective—can create profound changes in our lives. It’s not just theory; it’s practical, actionable, and deeply moving.
This book isn’t just for recent graduates or those at a crossroads—it’s for everyone who has ever longed for more authenticity, more connection, and more kindness in their lives. Meltzer’s storytelling is filled with heart, humor, and the kind of wisdom that lingers in your soul long after you turn the final page.
A true gem, Make Magic is the book we all need right now. It’s an instant classic in the realm of inspirational literature, reminding us that real magic exists in how we show up for ourselves and others. Highly, highly recommended!
Brad Meltzer’s Make Magic: The Book of Inspiration You Didn't Know You Needed is exactly that—a book that feels like a warm, guiding light in a world that often feels dim with negativity. From the very first page, Meltzer’s wisdom and heartfelt storytelling captivate, offering not just encouragement but a true blueprint for a more meaningful life.
What makes this book extraordinary is its ability to distill deep truths into simple yet powerful lessons. Using the metaphor of magic, Meltzer reveals how small shifts in perspective—can create profound changes in our lives. It’s not just theory; it’s practical, actionable, and deeply moving.
This book isn’t just for recent graduates or those at a crossroads—it’s for everyone who has ever longed for more authenticity, more connection, and more kindness in their lives. Meltzer’s storytelling is filled with heart, humor, and the kind of wisdom that lingers in your soul long after you turn the final page.
A true gem, Make Magic is the book we all need right now. It’s an instant classic in the realm of inspirational literature, reminding us that real magic exists in how we show up for ourselves and others. Highly, highly recommended!
August 9, 2025
3 stars.
This is a very short, cute little book of inspiration that summarizes a College Commencement speech given by author Brad Meltzer at University of Michigan in 2024. It's about believing in yourself and becoming a kind, empathetic, and successful the person after graduation. I think it would make a cute graduation gift! I do wish it had a little more depth though.
Quotes:
“As a culture were exhausted by venom and cruelty —and were starving for kindness and empathy”(12)
“If you really want to shock the world, unleash your kindness (13)
“A reflected best-self portrait. When someone you trust sees your potential and says they believe you can be that person, it opens up a path and inspires you to become that version of yourself” (35)
“How to make magic: make the best version of You appear, make your fear disappear and harness it, switch places to find empathy, and never stop transforming.”
This is a very short, cute little book of inspiration that summarizes a College Commencement speech given by author Brad Meltzer at University of Michigan in 2024. It's about believing in yourself and becoming a kind, empathetic, and successful the person after graduation. I think it would make a cute graduation gift! I do wish it had a little more depth though.
Quotes:
“As a culture were exhausted by venom and cruelty —and were starving for kindness and empathy”(12)
“If you really want to shock the world, unleash your kindness (13)
“A reflected best-self portrait. When someone you trust sees your potential and says they believe you can be that person, it opens up a path and inspires you to become that version of yourself” (35)
“How to make magic: make the best version of You appear, make your fear disappear and harness it, switch places to find empathy, and never stop transforming.”
April 17, 2025
This took me 20 minutes to read. It's 95 pages but huge fonts - a speech delivered at a college graduation.
Takeaways:
"The only people who see magic are the ones who look for it."
"The person who thinks they're the smartest in the room, is not the smartest in the room. They're just the one with the most fragile ego. The most sophisticated and intelligent people I know are the ones willing to challenge their thinking and admit there's more to learn."
"Today, cruelty and venom, harshly judging those we disagree with has become a sport in our culture but cruelty and venom aren't proof of strength. They're signs of weakness and petty insecurity. What takes strength is switching places and putting yourself in someone else's shoes. That's not easy."
Another book I wish I knew who recommended it.
Takeaways:
"The only people who see magic are the ones who look for it."
"The person who thinks they're the smartest in the room, is not the smartest in the room. They're just the one with the most fragile ego. The most sophisticated and intelligent people I know are the ones willing to challenge their thinking and admit there's more to learn."
"Today, cruelty and venom, harshly judging those we disagree with has become a sport in our culture but cruelty and venom aren't proof of strength. They're signs of weakness and petty insecurity. What takes strength is switching places and putting yourself in someone else's shoes. That's not easy."
Another book I wish I knew who recommended it.
March 20, 2025
“Make Magic” by Brad Meltzer is an inspiring and uplifting read that serves as a powerful reminder to embrace kindness, empathy, and personal growth. Using the art of magic as a metaphor, Meltzer breaks down life’s transformations into four fundamental types—bringing positive things into our lives, letting go of negativity, shifting perspectives, and embracing true change. His approachable writing style and real-life insights make this book both engaging and thought-provoking. It’s filled with great reminders that encourage readers to be more intentional, compassionate, and open to life’s possibilities. Whether you read or listen, this is a book that everyone can benefit from—it’s a message we all need to hear.
Read
May 7, 2025This was a quick read and a good way to pass some time while on a layover in Atlanta.
While we were having lunch at the airport, a server noticed the book on our table and he took a picture of the cover so that he would remember to get it. I finished reading the speech while we were waiting for our flight. We had plenty of time, so I decided to "Make Magic" and walked back to the restaurant so that I could give the book to the server.
Needless to say, he was delighted to get the book. I hope that the messages in the speech resonate with him and that he's able to share the book with somebody else.
While we were having lunch at the airport, a server noticed the book on our table and he took a picture of the cover so that he would remember to get it. I finished reading the speech while we were waiting for our flight. We had plenty of time, so I decided to "Make Magic" and walked back to the restaurant so that I could give the book to the server.
Needless to say, he was delighted to get the book. I hope that the messages in the speech resonate with him and that he's able to share the book with somebody else.
July 8, 2025
This short book is one of the mot amazing learning experiments I've read in a long time! It has to do with four major steps to create your own magic. It has nothing to do with magicians at a circus, etc., it has to do with the mind-set you are in to make changes in your life via four easy steps. The author states that there are many different modes of who you are throughout your life...but it is up to you to make the choice that really fits. Empathy is one of the most important to dwell upon. I encourage all of you to read this. I will buy my own copy as this one is a library copy. Kudos to the author for this one!
November 17, 2025
5/5 Stars: I don’t know how you couldn’t love this book. It’s simple, short, and full of feel good ‘magic’ lessons! If you’ve got 20 minutes you can read this book and bring a smile to your heart.
I checked this out from the library, so for free, its incredibly worth it. I would also delightfully reread this one if I had it on my bookshelf anytime I need a quick pep-up for myself. One could also find Brad Meltzer’s original graduation speech and listen for free, as this book is just the speech written down (with a few edits).
I am intrigued by the author and will venture to read more of his writing.
I checked this out from the library, so for free, its incredibly worth it. I would also delightfully reread this one if I had it on my bookshelf anytime I need a quick pep-up for myself. One could also find Brad Meltzer’s original graduation speech and listen for free, as this book is just the speech written down (with a few edits).
I am intrigued by the author and will venture to read more of his writing.
December 3, 2025
RATING 3.33 STARS
Perfect book for this time of year. A quick read and an instant boost to draw me closer to my reading challenge goals for the year.
Kidding aside, I have enjoyed a few Brad Meltzer books in the past and I really liked the Decoded series that he headlined a few years back, so I was curious how this book would go. And it went pretty much the way I expected. It's short because it was a commencement speech, so it kind of ranks in there with Neil Gaiman's MAKE GOOD ART and JK Rowlings's VERY GOOD LIVES.
Poignant. Inspiring. Everything graduates (and the rest of us) should hear at least once a year.
Perfect book for this time of year. A quick read and an instant boost to draw me closer to my reading challenge goals for the year.
Kidding aside, I have enjoyed a few Brad Meltzer books in the past and I really liked the Decoded series that he headlined a few years back, so I was curious how this book would go. And it went pretty much the way I expected. It's short because it was a commencement speech, so it kind of ranks in there with Neil Gaiman's MAKE GOOD ART and JK Rowlings's VERY GOOD LIVES.
Poignant. Inspiring. Everything graduates (and the rest of us) should hear at least once a year.
February 28, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of this book from Goodreads so thank you to Goodreads and the author and publisher.
As I read these bite-size delights of inspiration, I kept thinking about how I just wanted to take so many of his quotes and put them on social media because we really need so much of this right now.
I am definitely going to pass the magic on so that other people can be inspired themselves… But only after I write down all of the bits that I liked so that I can look at it often and be inspired to remain magical.
As I read these bite-size delights of inspiration, I kept thinking about how I just wanted to take so many of his quotes and put them on social media because we really need so much of this right now.
I am definitely going to pass the magic on so that other people can be inspired themselves… But only after I write down all of the bits that I liked so that I can look at it often and be inspired to remain magical.
March 11, 2025
Saw it on YouTube; Bought the Book
It was on YouTube right after it happened, May still be there. Inspiring but too short for the price thus 4 and not 5 stars. I guess I had hoped or a John Maxwell book. It’s not that type of book. Seriously, I had hoped it would be an expanded version but it’s a few additional words at best. Still inspiring and something someone could take and build upon. Meltzer should have, maybe he will in the future. After all, the speech is magical and it would only be fitting for him to finish it properly.
It was on YouTube right after it happened, May still be there. Inspiring but too short for the price thus 4 and not 5 stars. I guess I had hoped or a John Maxwell book. It’s not that type of book. Seriously, I had hoped it would be an expanded version but it’s a few additional words at best. Still inspiring and something someone could take and build upon. Meltzer should have, maybe he will in the future. After all, the speech is magical and it would only be fitting for him to finish it properly.
March 31, 2025
The Magician
I saw this book during an interview on MSNBC. It came at a time when my family said and did some hurtful things to my grown daughter that broke her heart. I promised not to say anything, no matter hard it is. This book showed me a pathway and gave me the ability to take a first step on what may be a Iong journey, And I'm grateful for it.
Read it.
Inside you'll find grace, kindness, hope and courage to choose grace over revenge, kindness over meanest, hope to be better and the courage to be a better person.
I saw this book during an interview on MSNBC. It came at a time when my family said and did some hurtful things to my grown daughter that broke her heart. I promised not to say anything, no matter hard it is. This book showed me a pathway and gave me the ability to take a first step on what may be a Iong journey, And I'm grateful for it.
Read it.
Inside you'll find grace, kindness, hope and courage to choose grace over revenge, kindness over meanest, hope to be better and the courage to be a better person.
July 27, 2025
Inspiring message from a keynote speech about kindness and empathy. It was an interesting choice to shorten the text rather than lengthen it. I would have liked to know more about the background of the stories shared, especially Meercie, the grandmother who shared her apartment with the author's family. I understand the need to transform a verbal speech into a tangible book form, but there was an opportunity to flesh out the stories more. I did not like the varying font sizes and colored pages; too distracting.
April 13, 2025
LOVED this sweet short book about how to live life: be kind to others and yourself, have hope, make memories, take action, be empathetic, believe in yourself, and be a cheerleader for others.
Great gift for graduation, new job, someone who feels stuck, or just in need of some inspiration.
Life is full of awe and wonder if we choose to look for it. You are the magician of your own life, you are the creator. No matter what your age, it's time to make your own magic. I believe in you!
Great gift for graduation, new job, someone who feels stuck, or just in need of some inspiration.
Life is full of awe and wonder if we choose to look for it. You are the magician of your own life, you are the creator. No matter what your age, it's time to make your own magic. I believe in you!
August 7, 2025
Picked this up at the library without knowing it was a commencement speech. It was heartfelt and memorable with some important messages to young adults. I’m sure it was better listening in person but thought it was well-written. I liked the idea of the four magic tricks for your life. (Make the best version of YOU appear, make your fear disappear and harness it, switch places to find empathy, never stop transforming.)
January 8, 2026
A quick 24 minute audiobook that is read to you by the author. A short & sweet speech with so many amazing quotable words that we should all follow. Brad Meltzer delivers this to the graduating 🎓 class of 2024 of his son from the University of Michigan. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could all create a little magic each day. What a beautiful place this world would be. Go out and create your magic. Enjoy ❤️.
February 23, 2025
Thanks to Goodreads, the author, and publisher for the free print copy of this book. Brads speech is so encouraging and uplifting. This little book would make a terrific graduation gift. I didn't receive an advance copy so this one is pretty enough to give to my daughter for her graduation this year:-)
March 9, 2025
This book is an exact copy of his commencement speech back in 2024. He speaks about life and the 4 parts of magic that all of us can learn and use in our lives. If you have the chance to watch the actual 20 minute video, view it and enjoy it. Filled with life and love. No political garbage either. Wholesome truth.
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