99 pages • 3 hours read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
216
Novel • Fiction
Wisconsin • 1970s
1978
Middle grade
8-12 years
750L
The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin is a mystery novel where a group of strangers are invited to a luxury apartment building, Sunset Towers, and discover they are heirs to the fortune of the recently deceased Samuel Westing. Paired into teams, they must solve a series of clues to uncover the mystery of Westing’s death. Their investigations are complicated by explosions, paranoia, and the revelation that Westing had multiple identities.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Humorous
Challenging
Playful
227,367 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin is widely praised for its intricate plot, clever puzzles, and memorable characters, making it a beloved choice for both young readers and adults. Critics admire its wit and the surprising twists that keep readers engaged. However, some feel the large cast can be confusing and the ending somewhat rushed. Overall, it's celebrated for its originality and enduring charm.
A reader who enjoys intricate mysteries, puzzle-solving, and quirky characters will be captivated by Ellen Raskin's The Westing Game. Ideal for fans of books like From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg and Holes by Louis Sachar, it appeals to middle-grade to young adult readers seeking intelligent and engaging whodunits.
227,367 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jake Wexler
Jake Wexler is Grace’s husband and the father of Turtle and Angela. He is a podiatrist and secretly a bookie. Over the course of *The Westing Game*, his relationship with Grace improves, and he eventually works for the state lottery and becomes the state crime commissioner.
Turtle Wexler
Turtle Wexler is a brave and independent-minded young girl, often seen with her long braid. She is the first to step into the Westing mansion and plays a pivotal role in solving the mystery. She has a close relationship with Flora Baumbach and eventually takes over Westing Paper Products.
Angela Wexler
Angela Wexler is initially viewed as a beautiful and obedient bride-to-be. Over the course of *The Westing Game*, she grows more independent, eventually pursuing academic interests and becoming a successful doctor.
Denton Deere
Denton Deere is engaged to Angela Wexler at the start of the novel. He is a medical intern who, throughout *The Westing Game*, develops a personal connection with his game partner, Chris Theodorakis.
James Shin Hoo
Mr. Hoo owns a restaurant in Sunset Towers and struggles with health issues. An aspiring inventor, he finds success with his idea for paper insoles during *The Westing Game*.
Sun Lin Hoo
Madame Hoo, Mr. Hoo's second wife, struggles with loneliness and language barriers. She is initially isolated but begins to connect with others throughout *The Westing Game*.
Douglas Hoo
Doug Hoo is Mr. Hoo's son and a dedicated high school track athlete. His running skills are useful during *The Westing Game*, and ultimately, he excels in sports.
Sydelle Pulaski
Sydelle Pulaski is an outsider in Sunset Towers who seeks attention. She becomes an unexpected participant in *The Westing Game* and forms a meaningful bond with Angela Wexler.
Otis Amber
Otis Amber is introduced in *The Westing Game* as a 62-year-old delivery boy with a playful demeanor. He is later revealed to be a private investigator with ties to Westing.
Flora Baumbach
Flora is a dressmaker who forms a significant bond with Turtle during *The Westing Game*. She is warm and maternal, taking on a motherly role in Turtle’s life.
Christos “Chris” Theodorakis
Chris Theodorakis is a young birdwatcher with mobility impairments. In *The Westing Game*, he finds support and friendship with Denton Deere, his game partner.
Theo Theodorakis
Theo is Chris's supportive older brother, working in their family's coffee shop and aspiring to be a writer. His competitive nature is evident throughout *The Westing Game*.
J. J. Ford
Judge Ford is a determined and educated character with a complex past connected to Westing. Her rational approach is key in *The Westing Game*.
Berthe Erica Crow
Crow is depicted as severe and devoutly religious in *The Westing Game*. She has a mysterious past with Westing and forms a connection with Otis Amber.
216
Novel • Fiction
Wisconsin • 1970s
1978
Middle grade
8-12 years
750L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.