The Westing Game

Written by Ellen Raskin

Part of the Puffin Modern Classics series

Sixteen heirs must solve a cryptic puzzle to claim a fortune. But what is the real game?

5.3/7 Bookroo expert·4.0/5 Goodreads · 240,231 ratings

182 pages· 50,662 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

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Bookroo's summary

Sixteen strangers gather for the reading of eccentric millionaire Samuel W. Westing's will, only to find themselves embroiled in a mysterious game. With a fortune at stake, they must unravel cryptic clues amidst blizzards, burglaries, and bombings. As alliances form and secrets unravel, the question remains: what is the true nature of Westing's final challenge? In this twist-filled mystery, the dead man's game is just beginning, and the stakes are higher than anyone imagined. Can they solve the puzzle before it's too late?

From the publisher

A bizarre chain of events begins when sixteen unlikely people gather for the reading of Samuel W. Westing’s will. And though no one knows why the eccentric, game-loving millionaire has chosen a virtual stranger—and a possible murderer—to inherit his vast fortune, on things for sure: Sam Westing may be dead…but that won’t stop him from playing one last game!

Awards

Newbery Medal (1979)Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (1978)

At a glance

Format
Pages: 182
Words: 50,662
Reading age: 11–15
Audience: Young Adult
Lexile: 750L

Themes & topics

Books about inheritances Books about codes, ciphers and puzzles Books about problem solving Books about apartments Books about inheritance

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.3

out of 7

5.3

“A pretty fun mystery that keeps you guessing, is family friendly, and a bit witty! It wrapped up the story a little rushed for my taste, but this was an enjoyable read. It's a little tricky to use for a read aloud, as it's hard to keep track of who is talking and the clues when you're not the one reading, and it's a more challenging read mentally keeping track of everything, so I'd recommend it for older ages.”

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