The Past, Present, and Future of the Crossword Puzzle

All Of It with Alison Stewart | Dec 17, 2025

A new book about puzzles claims 36 million Americans solve crosswords once a week or more, and nearly 23 million solve them daily. Natan Last, a researcher, policy advisor, writer, and crossword constructor in New York City, joins us to discuss his book, Across the Universe: The Past, Present, and Future of the Crossword Puzzle.

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

The World Cup, the Knicks, and LeBron James’s Fate: An All-Time Summer in Sports

The staff writer Louisa Thomas on the U.S. men’s national soccer team, the N.B.A. off-season, and Serena Williams.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |

The near-collapsed Midtown building is now stable, but its finances may not be

Experts say the structural failure at the Pfizer Building could cause financial problems and a lingering stigma — but that the city’s housing shortage means renters will probably move in anyway.
Gothamist |

NYC DSA on Their Big Wins, and the Future

NYC-DSA co-chairs Grace Mausser and Gustavo Gordillo talk about the DSA's recent big wins.
The Brian Lehrer Show |

Get Lit: Laila Lalami's 'The Dream Hotel,' and Imal Gnawa Performs

All Of It with Alison Stewart |
YOU ARE ONLINE