Yearning for a little gridlock? Young adults who enjoy the puzzle phenomenon known as Sudoku are invited to join the Sudoku Society. The informal group will hold its third-ever event 4-5 p.m. Thursday at the Midwest City Library, 8143 E. Reno.
Sudoku is a number puzzle laid out on a grid of 81 squares, with the object being using the numbers one through nine a single time each " per column, per row and per three-by-three box.
Sam Richards, associate librarian in charge of young adult programs, said the event includes contests on easy-level Sudoku puzzles, with the first one to complete each winning a prize, ranging from a book to a snack item.
Recommended for ages 10 to 16, the group is looking for both seasoned and novice solvers.
"At least one person each time has been a first-time 'Sudokuist,' so we've talked about tips and tricks on how to do it," Richards said.
BENEFITS
He believes the craze has caught on with kids because "there's always a right answer," given the puzzle's mathematical structure.
"Given enough time, you can figure it out," Richards said. "I think also, there's a sense of accomplishment. It's not easy, and when you're done, you're like, 'Wow, I did this.'"
As a bonus, the puzzles reinforce problem-solving, reasoning and logic skills.
"It's a fun way of developing those skills, and I don't think they realize it," Richards said.
For more information or to register, call 732-4828.
"Rod Lott
