The word search puzzle was originally created by Norman E. Gibit for the Selenby Digest (an old want ad digest that was distributed by Safeway) in 1968. A word search is a word game that consists of letters on a grid, usually a rectangular or square shape that has hidden words throughout. The objective is to find the words that can be listed diagonally, vertically, horizontally and either frontwards or backwards. Often there are a list of words that surround a theme, but the more difficult puzzles leave it to the player to figure out.
I have always loved word games, the more puzzling the better. For me they are mental exercise, not only are they are form of intense concentration but they help to find minute differences in things; a skill that is even important when editing a review. Their ability to teach focus, problem solving and even vocabulary make them wonderful tools for students! I often times find that my sons homework will contain a crossword listing vocabulary words of the week and/or geographic locations so it comes as no surprise that the reason word searches became popular so long ago is because a teacher had decided to send copies through the school systems around the country.
The Complete Idiots Guide to Word Search Puzzles, Volume 3 was written by Matt Gaffney, a professional crossword constructor whose puzzles have been in The New York Times, Newsday, The Los Angeles Times, The Chicago Tribune and even the Wall Street Journal; a puzzle that my husband and I work on every Thursday together when he brings it home fresh off the press. It was exciting to think I’d probably worked on another of his puzzles! The word searches in The Complete Guide to Word Search Puzzles, Volume 3 had a nice collection of both easy and advanced so if you are a word game person like me you won’t have to worry about not having a challenge. It was a wonderful book to sit down with at the end of the day while waiting for my son to fall asleep, it’s calming… almost meditative to finish one and then another. It’s a book any parent would love to have on their coffee table and Matt Gaffney did a wonderful job creating it.
Buy It!
You can buy The Complete Idiots Guide to Word Search Puzzles, Volume 3 for $11.66 on Amazon.
The Giveaway: How would you like to win your Complete Idiots Guide to Word Search Puzzles, Volume 3? I have one to give away to one lucky contestant!
To enter the giveaway head over to Idiots Guides.com and tell me which one is your favorite! This step must be done before you can qualify for extra entries.
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This giveaway is open to residents of the US until June 26th at 11:59 pm.
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I received samples for the purpose of reviewing. Opinions expressed are my own or my families and are not influenced by any form of compensation. Take it or leave it. Click here to view my full acknowledgment policy.
