🦕 Now booking 2026 & 2027 · 2026 CSLP theme: "Unearth a Story" · 2027 theme: "Mysteries Await at Your Library" →
Summer Reading Program
Prehistoric laughs, jaw-dropping illusions, and audience participation that brings the CSLP theme to life.
Joe Coover performing magic show at Oklahoma library
Program overview
Step back in time for a prehistoric adventure filled with laughter, magic, and audience participation! Designed for the 2026 CSLP theme "Unearth a Story," blending hilarious moments with jaw-dropping illusions. Children and families roar with delight as they help the magician uncover the secrets of the dinosaurs.
Designed specifically for the library audience — not a birthday party show. Every element connects back to curiosity, discovery, and the spirit of summer reading.
What happens
Joe enters as a time-traveling magician with a case full of prehistoric secrets. From the first moment, kids are immediately pulled into the adventure — laughing, calling out, leaning forward.
Comedy magic with dino-themed props keeps every child in the room engaged. The tricks escalate — audiences gasp, then laugh, then gasp again. Illusions are tied directly to the "discovery" theme, making each reveal feel like an archaeological find.
A major illusion halfway through raises the stakes. Then comes the finale: a full audience participation moment where kids help "complete the excavation" — an interactive sequence that brings the whole room together for a memorable closer.
Educational connections
The Dinosaur Magic Show was designed to embody the CSLP "Unearth a Story" theme — curiosity and discovery aren't just backdrop, they're the engine of every trick.
2027 Preview: For "Mysteries Await," this show becomes a whodunit investigation — every trick is a clue, and the audience helps crack the case. See 2027 programming →
Show details
What librarians say
"The kids were absolutely captivated from start to finish. The Dinosaur Magic Show tied perfectly into our summer reading theme and had every child engaged. We've already re-booked for next summer!"— Kelsey Williamson, Youth Services, Norman Public Library East / Pioneer Library System
"Joe's magic show was the highlight of our entire summer reading program. The kids couldn't stop talking about it — and neither could the parents."— Children's Librarian, Oklahoma
Photo gallery
Joe performing magic trick at Oklahoma library
Audience reaction during magic show — laughing kids
Close-up of magic trick prop or illusion moment
Also available
We respond within 24 hours. Purchase orders and checks accepted. No payment required to hold your dates.
Tell us about your library and programs — we'll respond within 24 hours.
Thank you! We'll review your request and reach out within 24 hours to confirm availability and discuss your dates.