The Westing Game

Reach for this book when your child feels like an observant outsider or is beginning to notice that adults are often flawed, complicated, and sometimes play roles rather than being themselves. It is the ultimate choice for a middle schooler who feels overlooked by peers or siblings and needs to see that their unique perspective is actually a superpower. The story centers on sixteen heirs competing in a bizarre game to win a massive inheritance, but the heart of the book is about finding one's identity. As the characters solve word puzzles and navigate a building full of secrets, they realize that they are not just defined by their jobs or family roles. While the premise involves a death and a series of small explosions, the tone is intellectually playful and safe for the 10 to 14 age range. It is an excellent tool for building vocabulary and critical thinking, encouraging kids to look beneath the surface of the people they meet every day.