The Secret to Solving Crossword Puzzles is a humorous “how to” book that would appeal to any crossword fan, newbie, or old pro. The book has two parts: Part One, How to Speak Crossword, is a collection of tips for deciphering clues. The clues can be confusing to anyone starting out. This will cover the major conventions of crossword puzzle-speak. Part Two: The List, is an alphabetized glossary of the three and four letter words that are always found in crossword puzzles. These are short words with many vowels, essential to any crossword puzzle writer.