The central mystery of Ellen Raskin’s novel, The Westing Game, revolves around identifying the individual responsible for a series of bombings that occur after the reading of Samuel W. Westing’s will. This act of violence is not merely destructive; it serves as a key element in Westing’s elaborate game, designed to test the sixteen heirs and ultimately reveal a hidden truth about himself and his past.
The identity of the person who planted the bombs is crucial to understanding the themes of deception, identity, and redemption within the narrative. The bombings create suspicion and discord amongst the heirs, forcing them to confront their own prejudices and motivations. Unraveling the mystery provides insight into Westing’s complex character and the impact he had on the lives of those around him. The resolution is essential for understanding the moral compass of the characters and the broader message of the book.
