The Westing Game Book Summary

by Ellen Raskin136

TL;DR

A thrilling mystery involving sixteen heirs competing to solve the mystery of Samuel W. Westing's 'death' and claim his fortune.

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What is The Westing Game about

The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin is a complex and engaging mystery novel in which sixteen strangers are summoned to the reading of Samuel W. Westing's will. The eccentric Westing, a wealthy industrialist, has devised a game to determine which of them will inherit his fortune. The novel is filled with humor, intrigue, and suspense, revolving around blizzards, burglaries, and bombings. Raskin's masterful storytelling and intricate plot make this a timeless classic that has captivated readers for decades.

The Westing Game 5 Key Takeaways

The Will Reading

Sixteen people are invited to the reading of Samuel W. Westing's will, where they are paired into teams to solve the mystery of his death and win his fortune.

The Westing Game Begins

The heirs are given clues to help them unravel the mystery. They must navigate through a series of blizzards, burglaries, and bombings as they piece together the puzzle.

The Discovery of Identities

The participants discover various aliases and hidden identities among themselves, adding complexity to the game and making the mystery even more challenging.

The Resolution

It is revealed that no one actually killed Sam Westing. He faked his death to reunite his estranged family members and bring them closer together.

The Inheritance

In the end, Turtle Wexler, one of the heirs, discovers the true nature of the game and is named the ultimate heir to Westing's fortune, showcasing her intelligence and determination.

Top The Westing Game Quotes

  • "Some are not who they say they are, and some are not who they think they are."
  • "Life, too, is a game, but it is a game with serious consequences."
  • "The poor are crazy, the rich just eccentric."

Who should read The Westing Game?

The Westing Game is ideal for middle schoolers and anyone who enjoys a compelling mystery filled with twists and turns. Readers who appreciate wordplay, puzzles, and intricate plots will find this novel particularly rewarding.

About the Author

Ellen Raskin (1928-1984) was an American writer and illustrator known for her work in children's literature. She achieved significant acclaim for The Westing Game, which won the Newbery Medal in 1979. Raskin's other notable works include Figgs & Phantoms and The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues. Her background in illustration and design deeply influenced her writing style, characterized by its visual and puzzle-like elements. Raskin's legacy continues to be celebrated in the world of children's and young adult literature.

The Westing Game Best Reviews

  • "A supersharp mystery...confoundingly clever, and very funny." —Booklist, starred review
  • "Great fun for those who enjoy illusion, word play, or sleight of hand." —The New York Times Book Review
  • "A fascinating medley of word games, disguises, multiple aliases, and subterfuges—a demanding but rewarding book." —The Horn Book

The Westing Game FAQs

What is The Westing Game mainly about?

The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin is a thrilling murder mystery in which sixteen strangers are tasked with solving the mystery of Samuel W. Westing's death to claim his fortune.

What age is The Westing Game appropriate for?

The Westing Game is perfect for middle schoolers or anyone looking for a short, compelling novel.

Who is the killer in The Westing Game?

No one killed Sam Westing. He used a dummy to fake his death to draw his scattered nieces and nephews back together.