WORD TEASERS. Hayes, Dympna and Melanie Lehmann. Illustrations by Jeff Dickson, Shane Doyle and Jodi Shuster. Burlington, Hayes Publishing. 1987. 32pp, paper. $3.95. ISBN 0-88625-148-6. (Mind Benders series). Grades 4 to 6 Reviewed by Maureen Pammett Volume 16 Number 4 1988 July Brightly coloured and attractive, this series of books will be welcomed by parents and teachers alike. Each section would be useful in classroom work stations and in language corners as a fun introduction to language expansion, word study or thinking skills development. Many items could be used as fun games for a party: who can solve the puzzle most accurately in the shortest time? Parents will also appreciate the fact that these activities help to develop thinking skills and should keep the child occupied for a considerable time. Vivid cartoonlike illustrations decorate the pages and sometimes give clues. The humorous antics of the children and animals and the attention to detail will attract the young reader. Answers are given at the back of each book, and children are encouraged throughout to use tracing paper or other paper so that friends can also try to solve the puzzles. While these teasers are most useful for ages nine to eleven, older children or even adults will have fun trying them. In this first title the variety of activities is excellent. Ranging from unscrambling letters to picking out words that don't belong, ridiculous riddles, tongue-twisters, looney limericks, secret codes and a two-page story in which fifteen words are hidden, the activities should appeal to a wide range of children's interests. For parents who love crossword puzzles and cryptograms, this would be an excellent way to involve the children. Recommended. Maureen Pammett, Bridgenorth, Ont.