Boston Puzzle 
by Guest Writer Roberta Shore

We invite you to read Roberta Shore's review on the following jigsaw puzzle. Since she has discovered the advantages of jigsaw puzzling, she has reviewed/journaled several that will be available on this website.  You may like this New York Puzzle Company City Map  jigsaw puzzle Amazon link

Boston Jigsaw Puzzle New York Puzzle Company Random Cut 100 Pieces Finished Dimensions: 9” x 7”

Boston Puzzle - Roberta's Review

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Boston-puzzle-2

Boston Jigsaw Puzzle

New York Puzzle Company
Random Cut
100 Pieces
Finished Dimensions: 9” x 7”

My Confident Puzzler Difficulty Level: Pretty Easy Fun!

This transit system was once known as the MTA (Massachusetts Transit Authority), but it grew up. With the expansion, it became the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority). Whatever its proper name, now everyone just calls it “The T”.

A map like this can look complicated, but with only 100 pieces, it’s really just a pleasant amount of challenge. Your brain will work enough to provide the mind clearing calm the puzzling process offers, while you build the puzzle and finish with a smile.

So, having time for a quick puzzle fix, I poured out the pieces. Hmmm - what’s going on? There were odd colored pieces that did not in any way match the puzzle pic. I’ve done a few of these delightful little puzzles — every one had all its correct pieces. And then, there on the side of the box, it said Double Sided. What a surprise! Two for the price of one (for under $10!). The others weren’t like that. I went to the brand site. Low and behold, there it was, plus 2 more double sided minis. I know nothing about the NY or DC transit systems, but if you ride either one, you can map out your route in a puzzle.

The illustration for side 2 was on the bottom of the box - titled Charlie Card.

Boston-puzzle-2

“Charlie Cards were introduced in 2006. They are reusable cards that can be loaded with cash value or passes to pay bus and subway fares.” And a bit more history: The card is named after the lead character in the 1948 protest folk music song, “M.T.A.” It was written to protest a fare increase in the form of an extra five cent exit fare for longer rides. It was later made popular by the Kingston Trio in 1959. “He may ride forever,” the chorus goes, “'Neath the streets of Boston, He’s the man who never returned.” Poor Charlie, but the perfect card name!

There was no such thing when I was in college and used the MTA all the time! Well, that was in the last century, times have certainly changed!

I opted to do the MBTA map side anyway. It was the memory that inspired me to get the puzzle.

Quality: The one and only minus is loose piece fit. With 100 pieces, not much of an issue. Otherwise, the very small, sturdy, take anywhere with you, box has the full illustration of the map on the top. Inside, there is only a sealed bag of pieces. As for any two sided confusion, the map side is smooth with a slight sheen, the Charlie side is dull, plain paper. There was no puzzle dust. The pieces are solid; none were damaged or together uncut, and none were missing.

Getting started: Find the edge pieces and sort by color. I sorted out the green headline box, the water, and pieces for each of the red, green, orange and blue lines. Most text was near impossible to read, but visible enough to tell if it was right side up.

Construction: I built the frame and filed in the Boston signage at the bottom. Then I added the ocean. Next, I put in the colored subway routes and built around them. I pieced the puzzle together on s small foam board so I could put another on top and flip it over. The people in the windows on side 2 would have been the hardest part, but in total, that was certainly the easier side. I did not break up the pieces and try to build it. For the time being, I was calm enough. Amazing what a little puzzling can do!

Final thoughts: I think 100 piece puzzles have a place in any puzzle collection for the reasons above and more. They are portable - throw some in a travel bag, and relax after a long day of work away or vacation play. They make great little gifts. Some mini puzzles mean tiny pieces and a tiny finished size. The ones from this company have a presence when completed. There are even 9” x 7” ready made frames available. Tape the puzzle on the back (loose piece fit, remember?) and display them. The selection of categories is large and varied. Frame a memory, a favorite city, a national park, even a childhood book title. I can, without hesitation, recommend these little puzzle gems.

My Grades: Quality A-, Fun Factor A+

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About: New York Puzzle Company, Where Art and Puzzles Unite

Introduction

The New York Puzzle Company has earned a reputation as a premier puzzle manufacturer, renowned for its commitment to quality, diverse artwork styles, and engaging puzzle collections. With a rich history and a wide range of puzzle piece counts, the New York Puzzle Company has become a favorite among puzzle enthusiasts. In this article, we delve into the history of the company, explore their artwork themes and styles, and highlight the famous artist collaborations, including their popular Mini Collection.

A Journey Through the History of the New York Puzzle Company

Founded in 2007 by two friends with a passion for jigsaw puzzles, the New York Puzzle Company quickly established itself as a leader in the industry. From its humble beginnings, the company's dedication to creating high-quality puzzles with captivating artwork propelled its growth and popularity.

Artwork Styles and Themes

One of the distinguishing features of the New York Puzzle Company is its vast array of artwork styles and themes. Catering to a wide range of interests and preferences, their puzzles showcase a diverse selection of images, ensuring there is something for everyone.

From whimsical illustrations and nostalgic vintage designs to vibrant cityscapes and stunning nature scenes, the New York Puzzle Company's artwork spans a broad spectrum of styles. Each puzzle is a work of art in itself, carefully selected to appeal to puzzle enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

Collaborations with Famous Artists and the Mini Collection

The New York Puzzle Company has collaborated with renowned artists to bring their captivating artwork to life as jigsaw puzzles. These collaborations have resulted in unique and highly sought-after puzzle collections.

One notable collection is the Mini Collection, featuring puzzles with a smaller piece count, typically ranging from 100 to 500 pieces. This collection showcases artwork from famous artists, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of their work in a more compact puzzle format. The Mini Collection offers a diverse range of artistic styles and themes to engage puzzle solvers.

Puzzle Piece Counts for Every Skill Level

The New York Puzzle Company recognizes that puzzle enthusiasts come in all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned experts. To cater to different preferences and abilities, they offer a wide range of puzzle piece counts.

For those seeking a leisurely puzzling experience or for beginners, the New York Puzzle Company offers puzzles with lower piece counts, typically ranging from 300 to 500 pieces. These puzzles provide an approachable challenge while still allowing solvers to enjoy the intricacies of the artwork.

For more experienced puzzlers looking for a greater challenge, the company offers puzzles with higher piece counts, ranging from 1,000 pieces and beyond. These puzzles require dedication, focus, and problem-solving skills, offering a rewarding and immersive experience.

Conclusion

The New York Puzzle Company has established itself as a leader in the puzzle industry, offering a wide range of high-quality puzzles with captivating artwork. With their diverse collection of artwork styles and themes, collaborations with famous artists, and various puzzle piece counts, they have something to offer every puzzle enthusiast.

Whether you're drawn to whimsical illustrations, nostalgic scenes, or vibrant cityscapes, the New York Puzzle Company provides a gateway to the joy of puzzling and the beauty of art. With each piece carefully placed, you embark on a journey of creativity, relaxation, and the satisfaction of completing a captivating work of art, piece by piece.

(ChatGPT, personal communication, June 20, 2023)