Mr. Sacchetti Makes Problem-Solving Fun with New Book

Mr. Sacchetti Makes Problem-Solving Fun with New Book

Pingree Math Department Chair, Stephen Sacchetti, has released his second book, More Puzzler's Puzzlers: A Second Puzzle Book for Puzzle Enthusiasts! His first book, The Puzzler's Puzzlers, was independently released in 2021. Both books feature logic-based puzzles designed to engage a wide audience of logicians. 

For Sacchetti, who teaches precalculus and applied math, puzzles are powerful tools for developing resilience and flexibility—characteristics essential for success in math and life. "Students who enjoy puzzles tend to be more flexible in their thinking," he explained. "Even if they only know one piece, they’re willing to experiment and figure out the rest." 

Sacchetti has observed that students who regularly engage with puzzles tend to show greater perseverance when confronted with challenges—a  key to academic success. “In math education, students often rush toward a solution without fully understanding the problem,” Sacchetti explained. “Puzzles slow them down, encouraging them to reflect on their approach, explore different methods, and ultimately arrive at a solution.”

Sacchetti also believes puzzles bring people together. “There’s something uniquely rewarding about tackling a challenge as a group,” Sacchetti said. “When people work together to solve a puzzle, it’s about more than just finding the solution. It’s the sense of accomplishment that comes from facing the challenge as a team.” .” He added that the camaraderie of group puzzle-solving builds trust and mutual respect. “When a group faces a tough challenge together, they rely on each other’s strengths, help one another through moments of frustration, and celebrate the achievement as a team.” 

Ultimately, Sacchetti hopes his puzzle books will inspire students to approach both puzzles and problems with a sense of curiosity, play, and persistence. “The joy of solving a puzzle is about the journey as much as the solution,” he said. “That’s the mindset I hope students take into their math education and everyday lives.”

Both The Puzzler's Puzzlers and More Puzzler's Puzzlers are available on Amazon.