Will Shortz, crossword editor of the New York Times and puzzle master for NPR’s Weekend Edition Sunday, appears at the Napa Valley Opera House on  May 11 at 8 p.m.

During the event Shortz will discuss his favorite crosswords and puzzlemakers, how crosswords are created, their curious history and his lifelong passion for puzzles. He will also answer questions and conduct audience participation word games.

An enigmatologist, the only academically accredited puzzle master in the world, Shortz designed his own major program at Indiana University, which in 1974 led to his one-of-a-kind degree in enigmatology, the study of puzzles.

In addition to his work for NPR and the Times, Shortz has been the editor of Games magazine for 15 years and is the founder and director of the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament. He sold his first puzzle professionally when he was 14. At 16 he became a regular contributor to Dell puzzle publications.

Shortz received a law degree from the University of Virginia Law, however, was not creative enough for him and following graduation he skipped the bar exam and began his career in puzzles.

Will Shortz

Napa Valley Opera House

Friday, May 11, 8 p.m.

Tickets: $38

Box office: 226-7372