Shows how to make a variety of puzzles out of wood, string, and wire, and includes solutions
The best puzzles satisfy the following criteria:
(a) Easy to understand and look easy to solve.
(b) Difficult to solve.
(c) In reality, easy to solve and the solutions are easy to understand.
All of the puzzles contained in this book, many of which have been in existence in some form for many years, fit the mold defined above. Detailed instructions on how to construct them as well as solutions are included. While most require only standard materials, such skills as wood and metal working are sometimes necessary.
It is easy to feel like an imbecile when you are unsuccessful in solving some of these items and then in desperation go to the solutions and see how simple it is. In many cases, the secret is to abandon the "obvious" approach and look at the problem sideways. The path that first appears least likely to lead to a solution is often the proper one. If you enjoy puzzles, this book is a necessary purchase.