Petawawa library mystery goes unsolved

Most would-be puzzle solvers share a common mistake, says the author of Petawawa's "Mystery at the Library" riddle, Don Shade.

"They seize one clue, then bend all other clues to suit their premature assumption", says Shade, who laboriously devised all 16 clues to the library's contest, held as part of Civic Centre Days.

The clues, a blend of factual and riddle-types, included teasers such as "So complex it took three to do", "A horned helmet may twice be of help to you" and "Some horsey terms blended with fruit."

No one managed to solve the mystery, but a draw was made and a winner, Michelle Dumas, 9, was found.

Michelle's mother, Jenny, who puzzled over the clues with her daughter, admits they, too, were guilty of setting their sights on one clue and making the others fit in.

"We thought it was a Commodore computer", says Michelle, but adds she is quite pleased with her prize, the mystery object, which turned out to be a book,"The Story of English", published by Viking Penguin Inc.

Shade says the clues " weren't meant to be easy"- they were aimed at those of high school level education- but he concedes the contest would probably be made a bit easier if it was done again.

The Petawawa Library would appreciate feedback concerning the contest, and for those interested in boning up on their puzzle-solving skills, Shade recommends the book, "The Search for the Golden Hare", which is available at the Petawawa Library.

Michelle Dumas receives her prize, the book "The Story of English" from Petawawa Library board member, Don Shade. Although Michelle was unable to solve the Mystery at the Library riddle, her name was chosen in the draw.