An Introduction to Harry Houdini

Grades 4-7

1. Harry HoudiniHarry Houdini

2. Harry Houdini was born on March 24,
1874 in Budpest, Hungary. He was
named Ehrich Weisz.
He moved to America with his family
when he was 8 years old.

3. When Ehrich was nine years old, he made
his first appearance on stage performing a
trapeze act. He called himself, "Ehrich, the
Prince of the Air." At 12, Ehrich hopped a
freight car and ran away from home

4. At 17, Ehrich changed is name to
Harry Houdini.
Click to view video

5. Houdini became famous after repeatedly
escaping from police handcuffs and jails.

6. After becoming famous in America,
Harry went to Europe. He added many
tricks such as escaping from
straitjackets and coffins.

7. Eventually, Harry was able to
accomplish his dream of having a full
show dedicated to his magic.

8. In 1926 Houdini died as a result of a
ruptured appendix, after being punched in
the stomach. Houdini refused to seek
medical help and continued to travel,
eventually dying at the age of 52

9. The Houdini The Houdini
BoxBox
by Brian Selznickby Brian Selznick
Compiled by:
Terry Sams PES

10. Genre: Genre: Historical FictionHistorical Fiction
Historical fiction has
characters and
events based on real
people and events in
history. As you
read, look for
historical details.

11. Can you always
believe what
you see?

12. Why do you think
Houdini is able to
escape and seems to
walk through walls, but
Victor cannot?

13. Why do people
enjoy watching
magic tricks so
much?