A speculative magazine for puzzle lovers of all kinds.

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Meet The Puzzler
Page 3
Mindful Puzzling
Page 7
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December 2023

2. PIECE by PIECE | 1
DEAR READER
Welcome to Piece by
Piece - a space crafted with
passion and dedication to
celebrate the vibrant com-
munity of modern puzzle
enthusiasts.
We aim to be a
source of inspiration for
individuals seeking a mind-
ful escape, a daily dose of
mental exercise, or simply a
moment of respite from the
hustle and bustle of every-
day life.
As we embark on
this journey together, I
encourage you to embrace
the community we are
building—a community of
thinkers, dreamers, and
problem solvers. Share your
thoughts, experiences, and
favorite puzzles with us.
Piece by Piece is as much
yours as it is ours, and we
are excited to co-create this
space with you.
Thank you for being
a part of the Piece by Piece
family. Here’s to the joy of
unraveling mysteries, the
satisfaction of completing a
challenging puzzle, and the
shared passion that con-
nects us all.
Happy Puzzling!
Charlotte Pulte
Editor-in-Chief
Piece By Piece Magazine
4300 N Marine Dr
Chicago, IL
piecebypiece@mag.com
224-358-9318
piecebypiecemag.com
Editor-in-Chief:
Charlotte Pulte
Managing Editor:
Charlotte Pulte
Editorial Team:
Charlotte Pulte
Design and Layout:
Charlotte Pulte
Contributors:
Charlotte Pulte
Publisher:
Charlotte Pulte

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WHATS INSIDE
Meet The Puzzler
Amelia Sterling
Crossword
Brain Teasers
Mindful Puzzling
Therapuetic Outlets for Modern Minds
3
5
6
7

4. Meet Amelia Sterling,
the prodigious
puzzle creator
whose ingenious
mind is reshaping
the landscape of the puzzling
universe.
Amelia’s
journey into
the realm
of puzzles
began as a
childhood fascination, evolving
into a passion that now propels
her to the forefront of the
industry. With a mind as intricate
as the puzzles she crafts, Amelia
has redefined what it means to
be a puzzle creator, intertwining
narrative and complexity in a
symphony that
leaves solvers
spellbound.
“I believe in
the power of
storytelling through puzzles,”
Amelia remarks, her eyes
sparkling with a blend of youthful
enthusiasm and unwavering
determination. “Every puzzle
should be an adventure,
an immersive journey that
“I believe in the power of
storytelling through puzzles.”
Amelia
Sterling
Meet The P
u
z
z
l
er
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5. challenges the mind and sparks
the imagination.”
What sets Amelia apart
is not just her knack for crafting
perplexing challenges but her
commitment to innovation. Her
puzzles are more than grids of
numbers and letters; they are
living, breathing tales waiting to
be discovered. Each challenge
introduces solvers to a world
where characters come to life,
and plot twists
unfold with every
correct move. “I
want solvers to
feel a connection
to the puzzles,
to be emotionally invested in
the journey,” she shares. “It’s
not just about solving; it’s
about experiencing something
extraordinary.”
Amelia’s impact extends
beyond the pages of magazines
and into the digital realm, where
she has amassed a devoted
following eagerly anticipating her
next creation. On social media
platforms, enthusiasts share
their triumphs and tribulations,
building a
community united by a shared
love for the puzzles that Amelia
conjures.
Beyond her creative
prowess, Amelia is a vocal
advocate for diversity in the
puzzle community, aiming to
break down barriers and inspire
a new generation of creators.
“Diversity brings richness to our
puzzles, different perspectives
that challenge and broaden
our thinking,” she asserts. “I’m
passionate about encouraging
more women to step into this
space and make their mark.”
As we explore the
enigmatic world of Amelia
Sterling, it becomes
evident that her
impact goes
beyond the grid.
Through her
puzzles, she not
only stimulates
minds but
also nurtures
a sense
of inclusivity and
belonging within the
puzzle community.
In a world
where puzzles
are no longer just
a pastime but a form
of art, Amelia Sterling
stands as a beacon of
inspiration, proving that
age is no obstacle to brilliance. As
she continues her puzzle odyssey,
Amelia
invites us
all to join
her in a
journey
where
every challenge is a
story waiting to be told
and every solver is a
protagonist in their own puzzle
narrative.
“Every puzzle should be an ad-
venture, an immersive journey
that challenges the mind and
sparks the imagination.”
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6. Down:
1. An animated film about emotions, featuring char-
acters like Joy and Sadness
2. Focusing on positive outcomes
3. Sound that reflects joy and amusement
4. Classic rock band with hits like "Stairway to Heav-
en"
5. The heart of the American film industry
8. Trendy green fruit
9. The practice of taking care of one's own well-being
10. Popular snack for movie watching
13. A feeling of worry, nervouseness, or unease
14. Negative social perception or stereotype
19. A common acronym expressing surprise or ex-
citement
Across:
6. Popular form of digital communication using
small images
7. Shared customs, arts, and achievements of a
particular group
11. Extreme fear or irrational aversion
12. Unique ice crystals falling from the sky
13. Iconic actress known for her role as Holly Goli-
ghtly
15. Amazonian superhero played by Gal Gadot
16. The ability to bounce back from challenges
17. Reinterpretation of a song or piece of music
18. A form of exercise that combines physical pos-
tures, breath control, and meditation
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7. PIECE by PIECE | 6
Brain Teasers
The Four Brothers:
Four brothers—James, John, Jack, and Jake—were
born in different months, each in a different sea-
son. Using the clues provided, can you determine
the birth month and season for each brother?
1. James was born in autumn but not in September.
2. John's birth month is earlier than Jack's, but
later than Jake's.
3. Jack was born in winter.
4. Jake's birth month is not in summer.
Can you figure out the birth month and season for
each of the four brothers? Visit our website when
you're ready for the solution or a hint, piecebyp-
iecemag.com
The Mystery of the Stolen
Artifacts:
In a museum heist, three rare artifacts were stolen— a
priceless painting, an ancient sculpture, and a rare
manuscript. Each artifact was stolen on a different day
of the week. Can you deduce who stole which artifact,
and on which day?
1. The thief who took the painting did not steal
anything on Friday.
2. The manuscript was stolen two days before the
sculpture was taken.
3. The thief who stole the manuscript did it on Monday.
4. The sculpture was stolen on the day before the
painting was taken.
The thief who took the painting did it
later in the week than the thief
who stole the sculpture.
Can you uncover the mystery
and match each thief with the
stolen artifact and the day of
the week? Visit our website when
you're ready for the solution or a hint,
piecebypiecemag.com

8. With Dr. Sarah Miller
& Dr. Emily Turner
Mindful
Puzzling:
Therapuetic Outlets
for Modern Minds
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9. In the fast-paced and interconnected world we live in, finding moments of
respite for our minds has become increasingly crucial. This article delves into the
fascinating intersection of puzzles and mental health, exploring the psychological
benefits of this age-old pastime. Join us on a journey where experts shed light on
how engaging in puzzles can be a powerful tool for unplugging, enhancing cognitive
function, reducing stress, and fostering mindfulness.
“Puzzle-solving is more than just
a leisure activity; it is a cognitive
symphony that engages, challenges,
and fortifies the brain,”
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10. Neurological Foundations
of Puzzle Solving
In the intricate dance of
neurons and synapses,
puzzle-solving emerges as a
choreographer, orchestrating
a symphony within the
brain. Dr. Sarah Miller, a
distinguished
psychologist,
takes us on a
journey through
the neurological foundations
of puzzle-solving, unraveling
the cognitive ballet that
transpires as we engage
in this deceptively simple
activity.
Dr. Miller begins by
likening puzzle-solving to a
cognitive gymnastics routine,
engaging various brain
regions in a synchronized
effort. “When we delve into
a puzzle, whether it’s a
crossword, sudoku, or a
jigsaw, our brain lights up
like a constellation,” she
elucidates. “Different
cognitive functions are
recruited simultaneously,
creating a dynamic interplay
that is crucial for the overall
health and resilience of our
cognitive abilities.”
This cognitive
gymnastics not only
stimulates mental agility
but also promotes the
establishment of new neural
connections, fostering a
web of pathways that
enhances
overall
cognitive function.
The prefrontal
cortex, often hailed as the
orchestrator of complex
cognitive behavior,
takes center stage in the
neurological ballet of
puzzle-solving. Dr.
Miller emphasizes,
“The prefrontal cortex,
responsible for executive
functions such as problem-
solving, decision-making,
and planning, is particularly
engaged during puzzle-
solving. It’s like a maestro
directing the cognitive
orchestra, coordinating
various brain regions
to work
Neurological Foundations
of Puzzle Solving
With Dr. Sarah Miller
“It's a dance of neurons in the
orchestrated marvel that is the
human mind.”
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11. harmoniously.”
As we navigate the
challenges presented by
puzzles, the prefrontal cortex
is not only responsible for
strategic decision-making
but also for maintaining a
heightened state of attention
and focus.
The brain’s reward
system, fueled by the
neurotransmitter dopamine,
plays a pivotal role
in the appeal of
puzzle-solving.
Dr. Miller
explains, “The
brain is wired to
seek rewards, and
solving puzzles
provides a surge
of dopamine—a
neurochemical
associated with
pleasure and
motivation. This
reinforces the positive
experience of puzzle-solving,
creating a loop of engagement
and satis-faction.”
The neurological
reward mechanism not
only makes puzzle-solving
enjoyable but also encourages
repeated engagement,
contributing to the long-term
cognitive benefits.
Neuroplasticity, the
brain’s remarkable ability to
reorganize and adapt, takes
center stage as Dr. Miller
elaborates on its role in the
neurological foundations of
puzzle-solving.
“Engaging in puzzles is akin
to a workout for the brain,
and like any muscle, the brain
responds by strengthening
its neural connections,” she
affirms. “This neuroplasticity
is the bedrock of cognitive
resilience, allowing the
brain to adapt and evolve in
response to challenges.”
As individuals
regularly immerse themselves
in puzzle-solving, the
brain undergoes subtle yet
transformative changes,
fortifying its cognitive
prowess.
“Puzzle-solving
is more than just a
leisure activity;
it is a cognitive
symphony
that
engages,
challenges,
and fortifies
the brain,”
she reflects.
“It's a dance
of neurons
in the
orchestrated
marvel that
is the human mind,"
emphazised Dr. Miller.
“Our brains light up
like constellations,”
- Dr. Sarah Miller
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12. A Sanctuary for
Stress Reduction
A Sanctuary for
Stress Reduction
With Dr. Emily Turner
In the chaotic rhythm of
contemporary life, stress
becomes an unwelcome
companion, taking residence
in our minds and bodies.
As we delve
into the world
of mindful
puzzling, Dr.
Emily Turner,
a stress management
specialist, guides us through
the serene landscape where
the art of puzzle-solving
becomes a sanctuary for
stress reduction.
"Stress often arises
from the incessant demands
of our surroundings," notes
Dr. Turner. "Puzzling
offers a focused retreat,
a deliberate act of
diverting attention
from external
stressors to the
immersive engagement
with the puzzle at hand.
It's a conscious redirection
of mental energy toward a
challenging yet enjoyable
task." Mindful puzzling
becomes a haven where
the mind can temporarily
detach from the stressors of
the outside world, allowing
for a rejuvenating mental
break.
The state of flow,
characterized by
complete absorption and
concentration in an activity,
takes center stage in the
stress reduction
drama of
puzzle-solving.
Dr. Turner
explains, "When
individuals engage in
puzzles, they often enter
a flow state—a symphony
where the mind is fully
absorbed in the task. This
state of flow is inherently
calming, creating a mental
oasis where stressors fade
into the background." The
rhythmic dance between the
mind and the puzzle fosters
a mental environment where
stress struggles to maintain
its grip.
The physiological
"They often enter a flow state—a
symphony where the mind is fully
absorbed in the task."
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13. response to stress, marked
by the release of cortisol,
experiences a soothing
intervention through
mindful puzzling. Dr. Turner
elaborates, "Studies have
shown that engaging in
activities that induce a state
of flow, such as puzzle-
solving, can
reduce cortisol
levels. This
hormone, often
elevated during times of
stress, experiences a gradual
descent as individuals lose
themselves in the challenge
of the puzzle." As cortisol
levels decline, the body and
mind shift towards a more
relaxed and balanced state.
Mindfulness, the
practice of being fully
present in the moment,
finds a natural companion
in the world of puzzles.
Dr. Turner emphasizes,
"Puzzle-solving is a form
of mindfulness in action.
It demands attention to
detail, concentration, and a
deliberate presence of mind.
As individuals engage with
the puzzle pieces, they enter
a meditative space, where
the act of solving becomes
a mindful break from
the stresses of daily life."
Mindful puzzling becomes
a therapeutic ritual—a
moment of respite where
individuals can recharge and
find equilibrium in the midst
of life's challenges.
As we conclude our
exploration into the stress-
reducing benefits of mindful
puzzling, Dr.
Emily
Turner encapsulates the
essence of this chapter.
"Mindful puzzling is not
just a leisure activity; it is a
symphony that harmonizes
the mind and the present
moment," she reflects. "In
the focused retreat, the flow
state, the cortisol calm, and
the mindful
break, we find
the notes that
compose a stress
reduction symphony—a
soothing melody that
individuals can play at their
own pace for mental well-
being." Mindful puzzling,
with its inherent qualities
that redirect focus, induce
flow, calm cortisol, and
foster mindfulness,
emerges as a
multifaceted
therapeutic
tool for stress
reduction in
the modern
world.
"The act of solving becomes a
mindful break from the stresses of
daily life."
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14. Areas in the Brain Affected
by Puzzle Solving
Puzzle solving is a complex cognitive activity that engages various
regions of the brain. While the brain operates as a network and
multiple areas may collaborate during puzzle-solving tasks, four
key regions are particularly involved in this process:
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P
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f
r
o
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t
a
l
C
o
r
t
e
x
Hippocampus
Temporal Parietal Junction
Basal Ganglia

15. Prefrontal Cortex:
The prefrontal cortex, located at the front of the brain, is crucial for executive func-
tions such as decision-making, problem-solving, and planning. It plays a central role in
strategic thinking and managing the multiple steps involved in solving a puzzle. This region
is essential for setting goals, organizing information, and adapting strategies as needed.
Temporal Parietal Junction:
Situated at the junction of the temporal and parietal lobes, the TPJ is associated with
attention, perception, and social cognition. In puzzle-solving, the TPJ is involved in main-
taining attention to relevant information, integrating visual and spatial cues, and recogniz-
ing patterns. It contributes to the holistic understanding of the puzzle's components.
Hippocampus:
The hippocampus, a seahorse-shaped structure within the temporal lobe, is criti-
cal for memory formation and spatial navigation. When solving puzzles, the hippocampus
helps in recalling relevant information, recognizing patterns from past experiences, and
creating mental maps. It plays a role in retrieving and applying knowledge from memory to
support problem-solving.
Basal Ganglia:
The basal ganglia, deep within the brain, is associated with motor control, habit
formation, and procedural learning. In the context of puzzle-solving, the basal ganglia aids
in refining motor movements, especially in tasks involving manual dexterity (e.g., assem-
bling physical puzzles). It also supports the development of procedural strategies and habits
during repetitive puzzle-solving activities.
PIECE by PIECE | 14

16. PIECE by PIECE | 16
Puzzlify
Don't just solve puzzles;
Puzzlify them.
Visit www.puzzlify.com