The Winston Breen Series

I picked up The Puzzling World of Winston Breen by Eric Berlin because it was on my son’s summer reading list and I’m always game for a good middle grade book, especially when puzzles are involved. I had never heard of this series (or the author), but after just a few chapters, I was hooked.

The story follows Winston, a puzzle-loving middle schooler who finds himself in the middle of a real-life mystery, complete with hidden clues, cryptic codes, and unexpected twists. What makes this book extra fun is that the puzzles aren’t just told as part of the story—they’re right there on the page, waiting for you to solve them alongside Winston. And yes, I absolutely did them all!

Of course, as soon as I finished book one, I dove straight into book two: The Potato Chip Puzzles. This installment takes Winston and his friends on a high-stakes puzzle-solving competition with a $50,000 prize on the line. The vibe reminded me a bit of Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, with its mix of quirky challenges, clever twists, and fast-paced fun—but The Potato Chip Puzzles came first and has its own distinct charm. The puzzles were as delightful as ever, and the story had just the right blend of mystery, humor, and heart. If you have a kid who loves Lemoncello, this is a must-read.

Finally, I wrapped up the trilogy with The Puzzler’s Mansion, and honestly, it might be my favorite of the three. The mystery felt deeper, more layered, and even more satisfying to unravel. The setting—a sprawling estate hosting a weekend-long puzzle event—was pitch-perfect, and the puzzles didn’t disappoint. There’s something so rewarding about a book that invites you to think, not just follow along.

Bonus side effect? I've started watching The 1% Club lately (highly recommend if you like logic puzzles and lateral thinking... or Joel McHale), and I’m amazed at how often the Winston Breen books have prepped my brain for the kinds of questions they ask. Case in point: the final question of Season 1, Episode 3. All the contestants got it wrong—but I nailed it, because a Winston Breen puzzle had a similar structure, and my brain just clicked into gear.

If you're looking for a smart, interactive, and genuinely fun series to enjoy with your kids (or just on your own), I highly recommend the Winston Breen trilogy. It’s clever without being condescending, full of engaging puzzles without sacrificing story, and it might just sharpen your brain in the process.