GeneralLast Updated on 4 weeks by General
Will Shortz, NPR’s esteemed Puzzlemaster, has been a fixture on Weekend Edition Sunday since its inception in 1987. He boasts an impressive career as the crossword editor for The New York Times, a former editor of Games magazine, and the visionary behind the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament, which he has helmed since its inception in 1978.
Will’s journey into the world of puzzles began at a remarkably young age. At just 14 years old, he sold his first puzzle professionally to Venture, a denominational youth magazine. By the time he turned 16, he had become a regular contributor to Dell puzzle publications. His dedication to the craft led him to a unique achievement – he is the sole individual globally to hold a college degree in Enigmatology, the specialized field of puzzle study, which he earned from Indiana University in 1974.
Born in 1952 and raised on an Arabian horse farm in Indiana, Will Shortz now calls a Tudor-style home near New York City his residence. This abode is adorned with an extensive collection of books and exquisite Arts and Crafts furniture. When he steps away from the world of puzzles, Will indulges in his passion for bicycling, enjoys cinematic adventures, immerses himself in the pleasure of reading, explores the joys of travel, and amasses antique puzzle books as part of his eclectic collection.