About Us

Magic and Life Skills for Children and Young Adults

Over 30 years ago, The Reading Company CEO Dr. Brad Kerwin began performing magic and showing it to his English students at Punahou School, out of which a magic club formed called “The Magic Mafia.” As the student club sought venues to perform, Dr. K met local magicians like John Hirokawa and Curtis Kam. 

In 1991, Dr. Kerwin began directing the Punahou Summer School program, where he and Curtis Kam developed a magic class – it became obvious that a student’s love of magic could be used as learning fuel for other subjects and goals. Our young magicians learn incredible illusions and mind-blowing magic while gaining indispensable life skills.

Over the years, we’ve found that magic is a perfect tool for improving students’ skills in:

  • Public Speaking
  • Critical Thinking
  • Performance
  • Executive Functioning
  • Leadership
  • Teamwork
  • Self Confidence

Our main curriculum is now based on the “five Ps” of magic: Public speaking, Problem-solving, Preparation, Poise, & Performance, through which we’ve seen many quiet students become confident, happy, and communicative persons at their schools, with their friends, and at home.

Where are we now?

Like our academic philosophy, we meet students where they are! We foster relationships with institutions such as Punahou School, Holy Nativity School, Sacred Hearts Academy, Sea Life Park, and The Hawai’i Children’s Discovery Center to host after-school and school break programs year-round. We hope to see you at our next program.