1 / 4The Times Big Book of Quick Crosswords Book 1
The Times Big Book of Quick Crosswords Book 1 collects 300 general-knowledge and definition-based puzzles, with no cryptic elements. The clues cover subjects including geography, literature, history and culture, and the publisher describes the puzzles as concise enough to solve relatively quickly.
At a glance
- 300 puzzles are described as quick, accessible and non-cryptic.
- Clues draw on general knowledge, including geography, literature, history and culture.
- The publisher says puzzles are selected from The Times puzzles section and were previously published.
Reference price: £9.99
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- A large collection of 300 puzzles provides plenty of material for repeated short solving sessions.
- Non-cryptic clueing suits solvers who want general-knowledge and definition crosswords rather than cryptic puzzles.
- The range of subject areas offers variety beyond a single specialist topic.
Technical specifications
12 specifications| Publisher | HarperCollins UK |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 1 Jan. 2017 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 464 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0008195765 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0008195762 |
| Puzzle count | 300 |
|---|---|
| Puzzle types | general-knowledge and definition crossword puzzles |
| Cryptic elements | no cryptic elements |
| Source | Puzzles taken from previously published titles. |
| Dimensions | 12.7 x 3.05 x 19.69 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 1.05 kg |
What to know before buying
- The puzzles are taken from previously published titles, so this collection is a compilation rather than a set described as entirely new.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Solvers looking for a substantial collection of non-cryptic, general-knowledge crosswords.
- Readers who enjoy clue subjects spanning geography, literature, history and culture.
- A puzzle-book gift for someone who likes crosswords.
Less suited to
- Readers specifically seeking cryptic crosswords.
- Buyers looking only for newly published puzzles, as the publisher says these puzzles appeared in earlier titles.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
74% 74% - 4 stars
18% 18% - 3 stars
6% 6% - 2 stars
1% 1% - 1 star
1% 1%
Customer feedback highlights that the book keeps solvers occupied and offers an enjoyable mix of easier and more challenging puzzles. Buyers also mention puzzle quality, mental exercise and gift suitability. Reactions to the clues are mixed, with some finding the range appealing and others finding clues befuddling. That variation matters if you want quick, accessible solving, even though the listing characterises the puzzles as accessible and non-cryptic.
Positive themes
- Customers report that the collection offers an engaging mix of puzzle difficulty.
- Feedback praises the puzzle quality and its appeal as a gift.
Mixed feedback
- Customer reactions to clue difficulty differ, with some enjoying the mix and others finding clues confusing.
Frequently asked questions
How many puzzles are in this book?
The listing describes a collection of 300 puzzles.
Are the puzzles cryptic?
No. The listing describes them as general-knowledge and definition-based crosswords with no cryptic elements.
Are these new puzzles?
The listing says the puzzles were taken from previously published titles.
What subjects do the clues cover?
The stated range includes geography, literature, history and culture.
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