A. Cyril (Arthur Cyril) Pearson

Arthur Cyril Pearson (1838–1916), usually published as A. Cyril Pearson, was an English clergyman and puzzle writer. Records for his books on Project Gutenberg, the Online Books Page, and Internet Archive connect him with works including Twentieth Century Standard Puzzle Book, Pictured Puzzles and Word Play, and One Hundred Chess Problems.

He is also identified in sources about his son, the publisher Sir Arthur Pearson, as the Rev. Arthur Cyril Pearson. That fits the tone and interests of his published work: clever recreations, word games, and chess compositions meant for curious readers and home solvers rather than specialists alone.

Although detailed biographical information is scarce in the sources available here, his books have lasted because they are approachable and energetic. They offer a window into the late Victorian and Edwardian taste for parlour puzzles, mental challenges, and practical amusement.