NPR Sunday Puzzles

Will Shortz, crossword editor of the NEW YORK TIMES and puzzle master extraordinaire, and Liane Hansen, the likable news commentator, offer up a sampling of on-air puzzles culled from NPR's "Weekend Edition Sunday." The audio program features some very clever listeners, plus participation by special guests, notably Tom Hanks, John Lithgow, and Harry Shearer (in character as Mr. Burns and Smithers from "The Simpsons"). As puzzle facilitators, Shortz and Hansen are radio pros. Both are supportive, fun, and down-to-earth. They read and play puzzles with intelligence and charm, and seem to truly enjoy their partnership. The program seems short, at only one hour, but the puzzles don't get old, even on a second (or third) listening. R.M. (c) AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine

December 15, 2009
"Name a well-known person in show business who might be seen at an awards ceremony. Take the first letter of this person's first name plus this person's last name in order from left to right. The letters will spell something this person might say at an awards ceremony." (Answer at the end.) This puzzle and several others are among these retrospective selections from NPR's "Weekend Edition Sunday", headlined by puzzlemaster Shortz and NPR cohost Liane Hansen. Recommended for those who enjoy stretching their minds a bit, shouting out at the radio, and just having a good laugh. (Answer: Tom HanksThanks.)J. Sara Paulk, Fitzgerald-Ben Hill Cty. Lib., Fitzgerald, GA

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