62 Across

NYT Daily • August 20, 2025

Classic Asimov collection

Answer:

IROBOT

Hint:

Think of the title that ties together Asimov’s famous laws and mechanical companions.

Explanation:

This clue refers to I, Robot, a famous 1950 short story collection by Isaac Asimov that introduced his Three Laws of Robotics. The answer is written as "IROBOT" (without the comma) to fit crossword formatting, but it’s still instantly recognizable to sci-fi fans. The title itself plays on the idea of robots gaining self-awareness, a theme Asimov explored in stories like "Robbie" and "Little Lost Robot." If you’ve heard of the Will Smith movie, that was loosely inspired by this book—though Asimov’s original is very different.

More Clues from This Puzzle

1 Across

5 letters

Tycoon

6 Across

3 letters

"Famously friendly" pooch, per the American Kennel Club

9 Across

3 letters

Mystery author Josephine

12 Across

6 letters

Moody hip-hop subgenre