The New York Times Crossword for October 23, 2026, features contributions from clue writer Katie Hoody, who has quickly gained recognition for her skill and creativity since her debut two years ago. Known for her clever and original clues, Hoody often hides indicators, creating challenges that even experienced solvers find tricky.
Hoody’s talent shines through in several clues, most notably in 18-Across and 11-Down, where her intricate logic is on full display. She has a particular knack for disguising the nature of the answers, such as with 24-Across, which signifies abbreviations, and 30-Across, which incorporates non-American terms. Her approach makes even straightforward clues engaging and perplexing.
One standout clue is 10-Down, which references “the most beautiful river on earth,” as described by Thomas Jefferson. This clue leads to a commonly used word in crosswords, enhancing the overall experience with a fresh perspective. Ian Livengood, a Times puzzle editor, highlighted Hoody’s commitment to accuracy, noting that she often confirms facts by contacting tourism boards and local authorities.
Tricky Clues
The puzzle includes several challenging clues. For 16-Across, the hint “Track event won by the fastest four legs” might prompt solvers to think of “relay race.” However, the correct answer is “HORSE RACE,” which fits the track theme. Another clue, 26-Across, labels the [Band at a Jimmy Buffett concert?] as “LEI,” playing on the association with such events.
Further complexity arises in 30-Across; [With whom one pools pounds for quarters] leads to the answer “FLATMATE,” with “pounds” serving as a hint toward British currency. Meanwhile, 38-Across translates to “TAN LINES,” referring to boundaries between areas with varying sun exposure.
The latest puzzle invites solvers to engage with Hoody’s innovative approach, continuing to enrich the New York Times Crossword tradition with inventive and meticulously crafted clues.
