The Westing Game

Raskin, Ellen. The Westing Game. New York : Dutton, 1978.

Plot: At the invitation of an eccentric paper-factory millionaire, the residents of a nearby apartment complex become the heirs of a vast fortune...if they can discover the source of the millionaire's unexpected demise. As the heirs fight, cooperate, and search, their own plans to gain the fortune, ranging from stock trading to checking car hoods, begin to unfold. So do their faults. The race for the millions becomes the scene of bombings, thefts, domestic troubles, gambling, and discoveries. Yet, the answer to Westing's final game remains ever evasive, even after the millionaire's murderer strikes again.

Genre: Mystery

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Floors, The Dark Stairs, Secret of the Three Treasures

Personal Thoughts: The novel proves it is possible to make a wonderful story with terrible characters. Overall, it reads like a hybrid of Finding Nemo and Murder by Death. The plot reveals the faults and growth of the characters through a genuinely intriguing manner, much like the Pixar film. As in the mystery movie, several are incredibly sympathetic and relatable, until the reader actually considers what they do. For example, the bomber acts to escape an unbearable social situation. However, her actions risk her life, injure at least one more person, and destroy a significant amount of property. Additionally, the two main protagonists, while presented as likeable, become unforgivable through their own actions. The female protagonist is a manipulative, evasive, violent brat, while the male protagonist is equally manipulative, but also irresponsible. Character faults eventually lead to conflict, lack of repercussions, and growth. The bomber gets what she wants without facing charges or guilt. The brat continues to hide her fears and faults under her accomplishments. The millionaire continues to avoid actually apologizing for his manipulation, neglect, and cruelty. Lesser characters also face their problems, but, unlike the supposed sympathetic people, actually work for their growth. A secretary fights through her fears of being ignored by becoming involved with other people. Once fearful of bias, a judge learns to assist others in radical ways. Two individuals afraid of accepting responsibilities and taking risks fight through their marital and social problems to succeed financially and emotionally. Yet, such accomplishments are downplayed in light of the supposed protagonists' undeserved happy endings. The story is wonderful, but the actual characters become little other than annoying.