I didn’t actually do the full 90-day challenge, but I did flip through the book and really liked the overall idea. Using word searches to boost brain function and improve focus is such a smart and fun concept. It’s the kind of thing that feels doable and relaxing, but also purposeful.

What caught me off guard, though, was the way the puzzle titles didn’t always match the words in the search. For example, Day 28 is called “Fortune Tellers,” but the words are things like “CVS,” “HONDA,” and “NESTLE.” Another one, Day 50, is titled “Just You and I” and includes words like “INSULIN,” “UNZIP,” and “HIBISCUS.” I kept wondering what the connection was supposed to be.

It would have been nice if the author had added a little explanation to help tie the titles and word lists together. That small detail could’ve made the experience a bit more engaging and a little less confusing.

If I had been doing the challenge for real, this wouldn’t have stopped me from continuing, but I do think it would’ve made some puzzles feel a little less fun or meaningful.

That said, I still think it’s a good book for anyone looking to keep their brain active in a simple, enjoyable way. Just be ready for some titles that might leave you scratching your head.

This book is part of a series of puzzles by this publisher. This time the focus is on word search puzzles.

As the title indicates, the puzzles offer a 90 day challenge. So, there are 10 easy puzzles, followed by 40 medium ones and, finally, 40 hard ones. Each word search has a theme, as for example, Pizza Party where there are words like anchovy and spinach, to name just two. As the puzzles get more difficult, they are bigger and the words may appear in more directions with more overlaps.

Some bonus puzzles are also included. For those who are unfamiliar with this type of puzzle, there are some guidelines and suggestions before the first puzzle page.

Looking for some gentle brain stimulation this summer? Want to have some fun at the same time? If so, this title is worth a look.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Zeitgeist for this title. All opinions are my own.