Why YouTube Success Isn’t Just About Likes or Subscribers Anymore

Why I'm Writing This - YouTube's Algorithm Has Changed

I'm no YouTube expert, but I'm definitely a research addict. 

I've spent countless hours watching tutorials, reading articles, and just observing what works (and what doesn't) on my own channel, StumpedRiddles. 

What I've come to realize—and it might surprise you—is that the old metrics of YouTube success aren't the only thing that matter anymore. 

So, I thought I'd share some of what I've learned.

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It's Not Just About Likes or Subscribers Anymore

We've all heard it before: get more subscribers, get more likes, and you'll grow. And yes, those metrics still matter—but they're no longer the whole picture. 

In fact, you can have a video blow up even if you have zero subscribers. I've seen it happen. The reason? Interest-based retention.

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What Is Interest-Based Retention?

This is the real game-changer. 

YouTube's algorithm (which is constantly evolving) is getting smarter at feeding content based on a viewer's actual interests. 

It's examining search history, viewing behavior, and even the types of videos people finish and rewatch. The algorithm then pushes videos not just because they're popular, but because they match someone's interests. 

YouTube and much of social media are building their own version of TikTok's For You Page.

You might be thinking, "Well, if I subscribe to a channel, it's because I'm interested in what they have to say." Sounds logical, right? But surprisingly, that's not always how it plays out. Think about how many channels you've subscribed to, only to rarely—if ever—watch their videos again. We've all done it. Subscribing doesn't always equal ongoing interest or engagement.

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How This Changes Everything

This shift means that the focus is less on building a massive following and more on creating content that resonates deeply with a specific audience. 

You don't need thousands of subscribers to make a splash. You just need the right video to reach the right people.

I've seen some of my own riddle videos gain more traction than I expected—not because they were perfectly edited or had fancy intros, but because the riddle struck a sweet spot in the interests of certain viewers. 

That's encouraging, especially for creators just starting out.

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Niche Growth Is Slower (But Powerful)

Here's something else I've learned the hard way: niche content tends to grow more slowly. If you're not making videos in a massive trend space like gaming or beauty, growth takes time. 

I wrote more about this last week, but it's worth repeating—being in a niche like riddles means you're not trying to reach everyone. You're aiming for your people.

And that's actually a good thing. Your community becomes more engaged, and your content is more likely to be shared among people who genuinely care.

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The First Three Seconds Matter (A Lot)

One of the most essential pieces of advice I've heard repeatedly (and am still trying to master myself) is this: the first three seconds of your video are everything. That's your hook. If someone doesn't connect with those first few moments, they scroll. Period.

So, I'm experimenting with ways to capture attention fast. Whether it's a powerful statement, a visual twist, or a bold question—I'm trying to start strong. Because if the algorithm notices people clicking away too fast, your video is basically toast.

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New Ideas vs. Recycled Content

Now let's talk content. The internet is saturated with duplicate, recycled content. That's just the way it is. 

But here's something I remind myself of: even old ideas can feel fresh if you find the right angle.

That's what I try to do with StumpedRiddles. There are tons of riddles out there, sure—but I try to inject personality, humor, and a little twist. 

It's not about inventing a whole new concept every time. It's about presenting it in a way that feels new or different.

Here's my latest creation to spark interest - the creation of the Riddle Sisters! Four young ladies with different personalities reading riddles and competing for attention. Their names are "Pink-Haired-Patsy, Educated Ellie, Gentle Violet, and Wild Roxy." 

Here's Educated Ellie's most recent riddle post!

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Final Thoughts (AKA What I'm Still Learning)

I'm still figuring all of this out, but I wanted to share these nuggets in case they help someone else. 

The biggest takeaway? You don't need a million likes or subscribers to be successful on YouTube. You just need a good idea, a solid hook, and a clear sense of who your video is for.

And honestly, I think that's kind of exciting.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Is My YouTube Channel Growing? What the Research Actually Says

 

Is My YouTube Channel Growing or Am I Just Going Through the Motions? What I Found Out

Like many content creators who have committed serious time and effort to YouTube, I reached a point where I had to ask myself: Is this going anywhere? Am I building something, or am I just talking into the void?

After uploading hundreds of riddle niche videos and slowly gaining subscribers, I started wondering whether my pace was "normal" or a sign that maybe YouTube just wasn't going to work out for me. 

So, I did what many creators do when they feel stuck: I started researching.

What I found was a mix of relief, validation, and renewed motivation. 

If you're in the same boat, asking the same questions, here's what I've learned from digging into YouTube growth patterns, expert opinions, and honest feedback from others in similar situations.

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Why I Started—and How My Goals Changed

Initially, my motivation for creating a YouTube channel was straightforward: I needed a platform to host short riddle videos that I could easily embed on individual pages of my website, StumpedRiddles.com. 

Initially, YouTube was just a functional tool—not a platform I had planned to grow.

But as I kept uploading and people started interacting—leaving comments, liking videos, even subscribing—I realized YouTube could be more than a support feature. It could actually become its own avenue for discovery, branding, and connection. 

That's when I started treating my channel as a long-term creative project.

Here's a Typical Riddle Creation For Both YouTube and My Website:

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So… Is My Growth Normal?

At the time I asked myself this, I had uploaded over 400 videos, built several themed playlists, and reached 155 subscribers—with a 90.9% like ratio on my videos. Naturally, I wondered: Is this respectable? Should I be further along by now?

What I experienced isn't unusual at all. Here's what I found:

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1. Niche Channels Grow Slower—but Stronger

One of the first takeaways that jumped out during my research is that niche content takes longer to grow. 

Whether you're posting riddles like I am, or offering tutorials, educational content, or deep-dive commentary, your audience is smaller by default, but often more engaged.

Unlike general entertainment or viral content, niche creators often build deeper connections with their audiences over time. 

The slower pace doesn't mean failure—it means focus.

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2. Most Successful Channels Take 3–5 Years to Build

This one surprised me. I found multiple sources and creator testimonials suggesting that it can take three to five years for a YouTube channel to gain significant traction—especially without shortcuts like trending content, reaction videos, or influencer collaborations.

In hindsight, this made me feel a lot better. What I thought was "slow progress" was actually typical progress. 

Understanding that YouTube is a long game, not a sprint, shifted my mindset and helped me let go of some unrealistic expectations.

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3. Consistency Builds More Than Numbers

I used to wonder whether uploading hundreds of videos with modest views was overkill. But here's what I learned: each video adds to your footprint. On YouTube, volume matters—but only if the content is consistent and aligned with your niche.

Evergreen videos, such as riddles or how-to guides, can attract new viewers long after they're uploaded. 

Some of my earlier videos continue to attract attention months after they are posted. I realized that every upload isn't just a performance—it's a deposit into your future visibility.

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4. Playlists Aren't Just for Organization—They're Strategy

I'd built playlists on my channel mostly to keep things tidy—organizing riddles by themes like health, holidays, and emotions. 

However, what I didn't realize until I delved into the research is that playlists actually aid YouTube's algorithm.

They signal consistency and intent, guide the viewer's experience, and can improve watch time. 

Creating a series called The Riddle Sisters, with fun character-based riddles, also helped give my channel a personality—which matters more than I thought.

One of My Many Playlists:

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5. Engagement Rate Is a Quiet Win

When I saw that my like ratio was over 90%, I wasn't sure if that meant much. 

However, experts say that the engagement rate is one of the most important signals of viewer satisfaction. It may not skyrocket your subscriber count overnight, but it shows that the people who do watch your videos are finding value in them.

That told me I wasn't just yelling into the void—I was actually connecting with the right viewers, even if the crowd was small (for now).

So viewers could see that I'm actually a real person (lol), I created a playlist section where I personally read my riddles. Here's one of them from the playlist: I upload these as shorts:

What YouTube Creators Should Expect (and Accept)

Here's the big picture I walked away with after all that digging:

• YouTube growth is often slow, especially in niche spaces.

• Most creators see meaningful growth only after years of consistent effort.

• Engagement and audience retention are more valuable than raw view counts.

• Creating structure through playlists, themed content, and branding helps both your viewers and the algorithm.

• Uploading regularly—without burning out—is more important than chasing virality.

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So, Should I Keep Going?

That was the big question for me. And after reading what I did, the answer became clear:

Yes, I should.

If anything, the research validated that I wasn't behind—I was right on track. 

The hours I've put into editing, theming, scripting, and uploading are not wasted. They are foundational. According to the experts, they are precisely what a channel like mine should be doing at this stage.

Meet one of My Latest Creations From The Riddle Sister Series:

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Final Thoughts: Questions Are Good—Just Don't Let Them Stop You

If you've been quietly wondering whether it's worth continuing, whether your results are "respectable," or whether your numbers are normal, you're not alone. 

I asked all those questions, too. And while there's no one-size-fits-all answer, what I found out is this:

YouTube is a long-term platform. Niche creators need patience. But persistence really does matter.

If your channel has heart, structure, and consistency—even with just a few dozen or hundred subscribers—you're already doing better than you think.

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👉 Curious how all this looks in action? You can visit my channel, Stumped Riddles on YouTube, to see how I've structured playlists, themed content, and kept at it—one riddle at a time.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Meet the New Star of Riddle Fun: Pink-Haired Patsy!

 

🎀 Meet Pink-Haired Patsy: She's Got Sass, Smarts & A Riddle or Two

Alright, I admit it—I've gone down a new rabbit hole of fun.

Some people garden, some people golf. 

Me? I create virtual characters to read riddles. (Don't judge—it's a vibe.)

If you've ever landed on my StumpedRiddles YouTube Channel, you might've seen my growing collection of short and longer videos—riddles delivered with a twist, a wink, and now… a splash of pink.

Because ladies and gents and everyone in between, it's time you met my newest obsession:

✨ Pink-Haired Patsy! ✨

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💁‍♀️ Patsy: The Pink Parade You Didn't Know You Needed

Patsy is 21, pocket-sized, and punches way above her weight class when it comes to personality. She's not the kind to wait her turn—or ask for permission.

She dyed her hair pink last week and hasn't looked back. Why? Because it makes her feel like herself. That's it. No deep symbolism. Just pink = joy.

She's bold, she's direct, and she's on a mission to make life feel a little less like a Monday morning. If you're too serious for silliness, Patsy's not your girl. But if you're up for a brain twist with a side of attitude? Pull up a chair.

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🧠 Why Patsy Reads Riddles

Honestly, she's doing it for you. (And maybe a little for her acting reel.)

Patsy gets it—life can be heavy. But riddles? Riddles are little puzzles wrapped in playtime. She figures if she can get you to smile and think in under a minute, that's a win.

So, created from my overly active mind, she's jumped in to read one of my riddles. Just one—for now. She has that "see how this goes" energy, but I've a feeling we haven't heard the last from her.

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👩‍👩‍👧‍👧 The Sisters: A Wild Bunch With Opinions

Let me tell you—Patsy's not an only child. Oh no. She's got three sisters, and family dinner with this bunch? Let's just say you wouldn't be bored.

🌸 Violet (aka The Whisperer)

Soft-spoken, emotionally tuned, and always the last to speak—but usually the one who says something that sticks. Violet's idea of fun is journaling in a café window seat. Her riddles are gentle, but deep. Don't sleep on her.

🔥 Roxy (aka The Firecracker)

Rules? Never heard of them. Roxy's the kind of girl who'd sneak a whoopee cushion into a book club meeting. She's wild, unpredictable, and somehow still lovable. Her riddles often involve a little mischief and a lot of fun.

📚 Ellie (aka The Brain)

Ellie is one podcast away from starting her sixth side project. She lives in learning mode. If there's a random fact to know, she already knows it. Her riddles tend to have trivia vibes or clever twists that make you say, "Ohhhh, clever."

And then there's Patsy.

A little bit of all three. But louder. And pinker.

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🎬 Dreaming in Spotlight: Patsy's Big Plan

Here's the thing—Patsy wants to act. Yep, she's heading to acting school. Her parents? Not thrilled. But Patsy? She's doing it anyway.

Because that's who she is. She's not here to follow the script. She's here to rewrite it—in pink ink.

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🎥 Patsy's Debut: Let's Go!

And now, for her first-ever public performance: a riddle reading that's equal parts sass and smarts. You can check it out right here:

🎬 Watch Pink-Haired Patsy's First Riddle Performance on YouTube

Oh, the answer to the riddle is here!

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🗯 Final Thought (Straight From Patsy Herself)

“Look, life’s weird. If you're not laughing at least once a day, you're probably not doing it right.”

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Ready for more riddles, laughs, and pink-powered fun? Patsy and the crew have only just begun.

Did You Enjoy Patsy- Created From My Wild Brain!

If I had to pick one of the sisters who best resembled my personality, it's probably Ellie! But I'm full-blown pink at heart! In fact, I've wanted to dye my hair pink for a very long time. Maybe one day!

Which sister best describes you? 

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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The YouTube Channel to Train Your Brain and Test Your Wits

Are you looking for a fun way to give your brain a workout? Or maybe you love a good challenge that makes you pause and think, then say, "Ah-ha!" If so, you're in for a treat.

Welcome to the StumpedRiddles YouTube Channel, where I share my collection of originally written riddles in video format. They are crafted to make you think, laugh, and sometimes scratch your head in wonder.

What You'll Find on StumpedRiddles YouTube Channel

On StumpedRiddles YouTube, you'll dive into a world of riddles in both long-form videos and bite-sized riddle shorts. Each riddle is unique, crafted with care, and designed to challenge your mind while bringing you a bit of joy. 

The Channel Gives You:

Longer Riddles that give you time to ponder and enjoy the clues

Riddle Shorts for quick, fun challenges on the go

Party Game Potential – Ideal for gatherings, parties and game nights

Every video is linked to a corresponding page on my website, StumpedRiddles.com, where you can see the answer, if it hasn't been provided in the video, and enjoy even more puzzle book fun.

A Mindful Escape and Mental Workout

In today's fast-paced world, taking a break from the constant flow of information is important. 

My channel gives you a place to do just that, offering a blend of mental exercise and distraction. Whether you're an experienced riddle-solver or just getting into the game, there's something here for everyone.

Try a Riddle - Solve This One:

Each riddle is crafted in the "what-am-I" format to be approachable but challenging and sometimes easy – no obscure words or overly complex phrasing, just a satisfying "aha" moment waiting to be discovered. The riddles provide great mental exercise, help build focus, and add a bit of fun to your day.

The Books Behind the Channel

My eight original riddle books, available on Amazon and other platforms, are also available for anyone looking to delve deeper into the riddle world. 

The books explore themes and riddles you won't find anywhere else, and they're great for gifting or enjoying on your own.

From Halloween-inspired riddles to everyday mind-benders, each book offers a fresh take on traditional riddling. If you enjoy what you see on the channel, check out the books – they're a great way to take the fun off-screen and into your hands!

Join the StumpedRiddles Community

If you're ready to give your brain a fun, refreshing challenge, subscribe to StumpedRiddles on YouTube. Not only will you stay updated on the latest riddles, but you'll also be part of a community of fellow riddle enthusiasts. 

Every riddle is a chance to test your wits, share with friends, or use as a clever icebreaker at your next gathering.

10 Riddles To Solve:

Head over to StumpedRiddles YouTube, hit that subscribe button, and get ready to be stumped or brag about your brainiac skills.

At the time of writing, I've added over 200 original riddles on the StumpedRiddles YouTube channel to keep you challenged and entertained. Turn the world off with a smile, and have some fun :)

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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2023 Halloween Riddles: Unveiling the Spooktacular Update!

Hey there, Halloween enthusiasts! Are you ready for some spooky, fun, and brain-teasing riddles that'll have you scratching your head in delight? 🕷️

Updated in 2023: Halloween Riddles - The Original Book with a Fresh, Spooky and Fun Interior

This is the very Halloween Riddle Book you're familiar with! But, I've given it a thrilling makeover – now, every page features spooky black and white background art inspired by Halloween. This means that as you tackle each riddle, you'll also get to enjoy the cool visuals!"🎃📖🖌️

As a reminder, this book is Volume 5 of 7 of my personally written riddle book series.

Here is a Sample of the New Interior Look for Halloween Riddles:

The New Interior Look for Halloween Riddles - Available via StumpedRiddles or Amazon

Here's Another Page to Preview! Each Chapter Features a Different Photo Background:

New Look Interior for Halloween Riddles - Available Via StumpedRiddles or Amazon

Were you able to solve the riddles featured above?

🎮 This isn't just a book; it's a game, an adventure, your own personal Halloween-themed mind exercise book. 

📜 Here's What You Get with Halloween Riddles:

🎃 Only original, uniquely crafted riddles – no cobwebs here! 

📚 Eight spine-chilling chapter topics to sink your teeth into. 

📷 Riddles served in photo format for an eerie visual twist – no boring text for you! 

🕸️ Use these riddles for games, as teacher aids, party starters, creepy stocking stuffers, or your personal challenge if you're up for it. 

🧟 All riddles follow the thrilling "What Am I" format. 

👪 Family-friendly and fang-tastically fun! 

🔑 Answers are neatly tucked away at the back of the book.

🕯️ Why should you pick up this book? Well, here's the lowdown: These riddles are one-of-a-kind, each designed to make you smile and scratch your head simultaneously.

They're easy to read; you won't need a cauldron full of magic to understand them. This book is the perfect addition to your Halloween celebrations and family gatherings. 

Imagine the laughter and friendly competition around the table as you try to outsmart your friends and family with these bewitching brain teasers!

🎃 So, what are you waiting for? Grab your copy of Halloween Riddles and prepare for a spine-tingling, brain-teasing adventure that'll delightfully leave you howling! 🦇🌙

Halloween Riddles, Available on Amazon - Also in eBook Format

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Take a Break and Solve Some Riddles

Fun Combined with Distraction - 2020's Prescription

With so many challenges in 2020, finding distracting things to do has been priority number one for my family and me.

Simply enjoying each other's company and being grateful for what we do have has been a priority in our life these past several months. But truth be told, it's still a conscious effort to keep the mind clear and hope alive. Life has a way of sneaking up and challenging our sanity. Sometimes getting back to the basics is the best solution.

So that brings me to riddles. Lol. Truth.

I decided to write riddle books as a form of entertainment and distraction.  Strangely enough, I started writing them in late 2019. Premonition maybe? To date, I've self-published five riddle books. My latest book is Halloween Riddles, featured below.

Available on Amazon

Turn the World Off With a Smile

When I created the books, and the related website, "StumpedRiddles.com," my tag line for both became, 'turn the world off with a smile.'

My latest project, Halloween Riddles, was a time-consuming venture. It involved approximately three months from writing to publishing. It was published on Amazon in August 2020.

This book features eighty riddles divided into eight chapters. The chapters are Unseen Halloween, Dead Halloween, Costumes, Halloween Food, Halloween Decorating, A Famous Cartoon, Halloween Emotions, and Halloween Noises.

The book was written for the avid Halloween fans and for parties.

You Can Also Solve Riddles Online

I built StumpedRiddles.com to coincide with the published riddle books.

The site features a growing list of originally written riddles to solve. When you need a mindless activity, head over at your leisure to tackle a few.

Some of the riddles are unique to the website, while others are from the already published riddle books.

A Growing List of Original, Personally Written Online Riddles to Keep You Busy Here

Here's one of the riddles you'll find on the website:

On StumpedRiddles.com

Did you guess the answer?

Oh, what the heck, I'll give you one more to ponder:

On StumpedRiddles.com

Riddles might seem mundane, but these days, that's a feature, not a bug!

I created the books for multiple purposes: Parties, Games, Loot Bags, Stocking Stuffers, Mental Challenges, Family Gatherings, and of course, Distraction.

Have fun, and lose yourself in brain teasers :)

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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The Book #STUMPED: Instant Party Riddles for Teens and Adults Reviewed

This is my copy of the book that features
the original book cover

At our last family holiday together, I set out Barbara Tremblay Cipak's #Stumped book for our after dinner game.  Before everyone started leaving the dining tables, our daughter began reading the riddles out loud and we all joined in to guess the answer.  

So much laughter was generated by this simple game as individuals started calling out answers as soon as the riddle reading was completed.  Some of the answers made sense, but were still funny.  We don't  have any shy family members, so this game was most entertaining and made for some wonderful memories of time spent together.

Anytime we have a family gathering, my daughter and I look for new games the family can play together.  I have always hated the times that family members eat and then migrate to the television.  It steals our family time and keeps us from visiting with each other.

I am blessed to be part of a big family.  Unfortunately, we don't all agree on most things and time together can turn into all out family war if politics or religion become part of the discussion.  Therefore, I do understand why some opt to head for the television as soon as mouths are free from eating.  Having a fun game to dominate our interaction is imperative for our family gatherings.

In addition to playing a family game during the holidays, when a family member was in the hospital, #Stumped provided entertainment for the patient who enjoyed the presence of her visitor for long periods of time.  Anyone who has ever visited someone in the hospital understands how you quickly run out of things to talk about. 

#STUMPED: Instant Party Riddles for Teens and Adults 

 #STUMPED: Instant Party Riddles for Teens and AdultsCheck PriceBarbara's riddles are witty and provide enough of a challenge for friendly competition to get the exact right answer.  We did make the rule that the exact answer would be the only accepted answer for a win.  That, of course, would be an option for any group to make for themselves.

I loved the way this book was separated into chapters with a focus title.  A chapter title like "Emotion Riddles" or "Outdoor Riddles" gives a hint to the answer from the beginning. 

I also like that the answers are in the back of the book and not with each riddle.  That keeps anyone from being tempted to read the answer by peeking at the book.  With a large group like ours, the narrator has people on both sides and it would be easy for them to see the book whether intentionally or not. 

Barbara has provided an inside preview of the book on Amazon, which allows you to read a few of the riddles to get an idea of what you can expect.  This was also a big selling point for me.  I needed examples to see if they would be challenging, yet easy enough, for the wide age and education range in our family. 

More Riddle Books from Barbara Tremplay Cipak

The #Stumped book was Barbara's first published riddle book.  She has since released several more.  That means my family can look forward to new challenges at our next family holiday dinner. 

In addition to her riddles, Barbara is an excellent writer.  She has such a beautiful and touching way of expressing herself.  Her books of sayings and recommended messages are inspirational for people like me who feel things deeply, but can't seem to put it into words.  I appreciate that help! 

More Books by Barbara Tremblay Cipak

 Check Price Check Price Check Price Check Price

 

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 The Book #STUMPED: Instant Party Riddles for Teens and Adults Reviewed by:

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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