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When I saw The Puzzler, by A.J. Jacobs, I knew it was a book I needed to read. I love all kinds of puzzles and this seemed like it was perfect for me. I took my time reading it throughout the year last year. I started it in January and finished it in December. I'm pleased to say, it was everything I thought it would be and more!
This is a very comprehensive deep dive into puzzles. Each chapter covers a different kind of puzzle, some that I've never even heard of. The author takes the time to share the history of each kind of puzzle. He did his research online and by meeting with experts in their respective field of puzzles. For example, for the chapter on jigsaw puzzles he consulted with Karen Puzzles. Before reading this book, I had never heard of her. I quickly learned that she is a popular YouTuber who shares videos on jigsaw puzzles, including time lapses, reviews, speed puzzling competitions, and more. In most, if not all of her videos, she offers useful tips for speed puzzling and for just leisurely puzzling. I've been hooked on her YouTube channel ever since. She's been posting videos since 2018 and continues to do so today, so I happily have plenty of videos to catch up on.
But back to the book. At the end of each chapter there are puzzles for the reader to work on, with solutions. Some of the solutions are right there on the page. There are "warnings" that the solution is coming. However, for most of the puzzles, the answer keys are in the back of the book. Admittedly, I did not do most of the puzzles, but it's nice to know they are there when I want to do them.
Occasionally, there was the use of strong language. It wasn't necessary and I found those rare instances distracting. Thankfully, though, it did not stop me from enjoying and learning from the book overall. In fact, the author writes with light humor, which was quite entertaining at times!
If you love puzzles, then this is a book you'll want to pick up. I recommend owning your own print copy if you want to work on the puzzles. There are also resources you may want to refer to from time to time.
Do you enjoy working on puzzles? If so, what is your favorite kind? If you've been following my blog, I bet you can figure out which kind is my favorite!
I like lots of word puzzles and some number puzzles. It's fun to buy a puzzle magazine, the kind with dozens of different types of puzzles in it, and just have fun doing as many as I can.
ReplyDeleteI like those kinds of puzzles too. Great idea to buy magazines with a variety! :)
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