The central mystery of the novel The Westing Game revolves around identifying the individual responsible for the apparent death of Samuel W. Westing. This individual, cleverly disguised among the heirs, orchestrates a complex game designed to reveal their true identity and motives. The plot necessitates careful observation of the characters’ actions and interpretations of clues to deduce the guilty party.
The identification of the person responsible for Westing’s demise is crucial to understanding the themes of redemption, second chances, and the power of human connection that permeate the narrative. Unmasking the perpetrator unlocks the true inheritance and reveals Westing’s ultimate intentions for the chosen heirs. The puzzle’s solution demonstrates the transformative power of self-discovery and the potential for positive change, even within flawed individuals.