The Plot Thickens: A Literature Quiz Deck from The New York Public Library

Are you itching for a personal challenge? Or maybe a friendly competition with a fellow book lover? Or perhaps, best yet, a rousing Q&A in your reading circle? Then this little deck of cards is just the ticket for an entertaining, enlightening, and sometimes even surprising tour of some of the greatest and most popular works of literature. One side of each card presents a brief synopsis of a well-known novel, short story, or play--with possibly just enough clues mixed in to help you identify it. On the opposite side, all is revealed, including a concise overview of the author's life and works. The Plot Thickens gathers an intriguing cornucopia of literary works, illuminating the greats of the past (Shakespeare, Austen, Fitzgerald), as well as the masters of today (Updike, Proulx, Rushdie).

Sample Clue: In this short story, a once-celebrated Parisian chef works as a cook for two pious Norwegian sisters who know nothing of her illustrious past. Upon winning the lottery, she uses her winnings to prepare a sumptuous feast for the sisters and the devout followers of their late father, an ascetic pastor.

Answer: "Babette's Feast," by Isak Dinesen