The Westing Game is a Newbery Medal-winning mystery for middle-grade readers, where sixteen unlikely heirs gather after Samuel W. Westing’s will is read and discover a puzzle-filled game that tests wits, loyalty, and nerve. This Puffin Modern Classics edition invites readers who love clever disguises, wordplay, and edge-of-your-seat suspense to dive into a story that is equal parts riddle and adventure, with an inviting, witty tone that charms both younger and older readers.

Written in a brisk, accessible voice, The Westing Game unfolds through a chorus of sixteen distinct characters, each with secrets to hide and motives to pursue. Short chapters, clever disguises, and a trail of clues invite readers to join the puzzle as it deepens, while humor keeps the pace lively. The story blends suspense with warmth as families, friendships, and rivalries collide inside a grand mansion and a city filled with possibility.

As the secrets unfold, you’ll meet a quirky cast—ranging from the cautious to the bold—each contributing to a tangled, entertaining journey without losing sight of the human stakes: trust, greed, loyalty, and the idea that every clue points toward a truth about who you are. The writing balances clever wordplay with heartfelt moments, making The Westing Game a joyous invitation to think, guess, and relish every twist.

• Intricate mystery built around a will-reading and a game-filled quest
• Sixteen heirs, a labyrinth of clues, disguises, and red herrings
• Clues, disguises, and witty misdirection that invite reader participation
• Brisk, humorous writing with memorable, distinct characters
• Develops critical thinking, pattern recognition, and deductive reasoning

After finishing The Westing Game, readers feel exhilarated by the clever orchestration of clues and outcomes, with a renewed appreciation for careful observation and logical thinking. The story lingers with you, inviting you to revisit the clues and ideas long after the last page, making it a lasting, satisfying reading experience.