Puzzle Masterpieces

Book excerpt: Words, prepare to meet your master--and sophisticated solvers, prepare for a treat. Patrick Berry's puzzles are unparalleled; whether in the "New York Times" or "Games Magazine," everything he touches turns to mind-stretching gold. And now he has created the most eye-catching crosswords ever seen, in a collection that's as visually gorgeous as it is mentally stimulating. The grids in these puzzles don't look anything like typical crosswords--instead, they come in a variety of shapes, each with its own unique twist. Of course, these attractive challenges are all filled with the freshest words and phrases, and clued with a wicked sense of wordplay. This handsome volume would make the perfect gift for any word lover.