BRAIN GAMES Crosswords

New York Times Puzzle Editor Will Shortz has expanded paper-and-pencil brain teasers to the audio format during his regular Sunday morning appearances on National Public Radio. In this recording of a public speech, he discusses crosswords and game history, leaving his enigma fanatics laughing and begging for more. Clever audience comments bring chuckles, like the devoted puzzler who worked a Times crossword while in labor and complained of difficulty concentrating. Shortz's taciturn delivery magnifies his subtle sense of humor. Listeners miss nothing from the voices with microphones, but mirth drowns out some distant exclamations. Warning: Trying to solve the puzzles at the end while driving may cause a brain bust. J.A.H.
(c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 04]