Novelist Sid Fleischman's memories are vivid, fresh and funny as he shares stories from his life. Fleischman writes in a friendly, conversational, never sentimental tone about growing up in San Diego during the Depression, and of a passion for magic that led to his early career as a traveling performer. But when he began to write, he found he could use his skills as a conjurer in a different way as well. Of special interest to young fans of his novels are Fleischman's explanations of how some of the people and events in his life found their way into his books for children. Black-and-white photographs round out this delightful autobiography. (Ages 10-14)