The Westing Game

by Ellen Raskin
The Westing Game cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 10945
  • Added: 2026-02-15
  • Updated: 2026-02-15
  • ISBN: 9780673817815
  • Published: 1992-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

When the eccentric millionaire Samuel W. Westing dies, his will brings together a group of unlikely heirs, each with a secret connection to the deceased. The heirs are paired up and given clues to solve the mystery of Westing's death and claim their inheritance. The game is on, and the heirs must navigate a web of lies, deceit, and hidden motives to uncover the truth. /n/nThe Westing Game is a classic mystery that combines humor, suspense, and a cast of quirky characters. The novel is known for its intricate plot, clever puzzles, and unexpected twists. It's a story that keeps readers guessing until the very end, making it a timeless favorite for mystery lovers.

Reviews
Greenish Bookshelf · 2019-01-21
enjoyable 4.00

The book is enjoyable and the plot details come together in a satisfying way. It's a clever challenge that keeps readers engaged.

The reviewer found 'The Westing Game' to be a delightful read, even though it's not typically their go-to genre. They appreciated how the details of the plot intricately weave together as the story progresses. The book's clever use of puzzles and mysteries makes it a captivating read. The reviewer also noted that the book's complexity and cleverness might have even surprised the author herself, as the plot unfolds in unexpected ways.

Quick quotes

    It's not one of my usual genres. But I enjoyed this one.

    The details seem to come together as the plot continues

    I'm not sure even Raskin knew how it would all come together

Read At Home Mom · 2014-01-05
brilliant 4.75

As an adult, the reviewer is impressed by the book's complex plot and well-developed characters.

The reviewer, reading 'The Westing Game' as an adult, is thoroughly impressed by the book's intricate plot and the depth of its characters. They appreciate the careful development of each character, which adds layers to the story. The reviewer also notes the book's clever use of puzzles and mysteries, which keeps the narrative engaging. The complexity of the plot is particularly noteworthy, making the book a satisfying read for both children and adults.

Quick quotes

    Reading it as an adult, though, I am thoroughly impressed by the complexity of the plot itself

    The carefully developed characters add depth to the story

    The clever use of puzzles and mysteries keeps the narrative engaging

Nerdy Book Club · Roberto De Leon · 2013-11-19
excellent 4.50

The book is a well-deserved winner of the Newbery Medal, with vivid characters and a complex plot.

Roberto De Leon highlights that 'The Westing Game' is far from underappreciated, having won the prestigious Newbery Medal. They praise the author's ability to create vivid and memorable characters, each with distinct personalities that make the story engaging. The reviewer also appreciates the complexity of the plot, which keeps readers on their toes until the very end. The book's clever use of puzzles and mysteries is particularly noteworthy.

Quick quotes

    It would be hard to argue that Ellen Raskin's The Westing Game is underappreciated; it won the 1979 Newbery Medal, after all.

    The characters are vivid and full of personality

    Raskin does a very good job of helping the reader remember who is who

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