Johnny's mother had three children. The first was named April, the second was named May. What was the third child's name?

Why this works

At first glance, this riddle seems to lead you down a path of seasonal names, teasing you with the expectation that the third child should fit into the same pattern as the first two. However, the clever twist lies in the very first sentence: "Johnny's mother had three children." The riddle subtly reveals the answer by naming Johnny right at the beginning, diverting your attention with the names of April and May, which might suggest that the third child would follow the same theme. This play on words creates an "aha moment" when you realize that the riddle is not just about finding a logical pattern but also about paying attention to the details provided in the setup. Such riddles often rely on our tendency to overthink rather than observe what is plainly stated. It’s a delightful reminder of how language can misdirect us, leading to moments of surprise when we finally see the truth hiding in plain sight. Interestingly, riddles like this one have a long history, dating back to ancient cultures as a form of entertainment and intellectual challenge. They invite us to question our assumptions, sharpen our minds, and engage with language in a playful way. Next time you're stumped by a tricky question, remember that sometimes the answer is right there, waiting for you to notice it!