If you’re a fan of mystery novels with intricate puzzles and clever plot twists, you probably have a soft spot for ‘The Westing Game’ by Ellen Raskin. This beloved book, first published in 1978, has captured readers’ imaginations for generations. But if you’ve already devoured ‘The Westing Game’ and are looking for more books that scratch that same itch, you’re in luck. Here are ten other books that are sure to delight you with their mysteries, challenges, and unforgettable characters.
Mystery Novels with Intriguing Puzzles
If you’re a fan of mystery novels that keep you on the edge of your seat, then you’re in luck! The following books are sure to satisfy your craving for intrigue and suspense.
‘The Mysterious Benedict Society’ by Trenton Lee Stewart
This series, which spans four books, follows the adventures of a group of gifted children who are recruited to save the world from a nefarious villain. Led by the brilliant Mr. Benedict, the children must use their unique talents and work together to solve complex puzzles and outsmart their enemies.
But it’s not just the puzzles that make this series so captivating. The characters are well-developed and endearing, and readers will find themselves rooting for them every step of the way. From Reynie’s quick thinking to Kate’s resourcefulness, each member of the society brings something special to the table.
Overall, ‘The Mysterious Benedict Society‘ is a great fit for fans of ‘The Westing Game’ who want to see more complex, multi-layered plots.
‘Chasing Vermeer’ by Blue Balliett
What do you get when you combine a stolen painting, real-life art history, and two sixth-graders with a knack for solving mysteries? You get ‘Chasing Vermeer‘ by Blue Balliett.
When Petra and Calder discover that a famous painting has been stolen from their local museum, they team up to solve the case. Along the way, they uncover clues based on real-life art history and learn about the power of intuition and observation.
But what sets this book apart from other mystery novels is its unique blend of mystery and education. Readers will come away from ‘Chasing Vermeer’ with a newfound appreciation for art history and a desire to learn more.
‘The London Eye Mystery’ by Siobhan Dowd
When Ted’s cousin Salim goes missing during a ride on the famous London Eye, Ted becomes determined to track him down. Along the way, he must use his knowledge of math and logic to decipher the clues and unravel the mystery.
But what makes this book so intriguing is the way it challenges readers to think outside the box. The puzzles in ‘The London Eye Mystery‘ require a little extra brainpower, and readers will find themselves putting their problem-solving skills to the test.
Overall, ‘The London Eye Mystery’ is a great choice for readers who enjoy puzzles that require a little extra thought. It’s a thrilling ride from start to finish, and readers will be on the edge of their seats as they try to solve the mystery alongside Ted.
Enthralling Adventure Stories
Do you love stories that take you on a wild adventure? If so, you won’t want to miss these thrilling tales!
‘The Gollywhopper Games’ by Jody Feldman
Have you ever heard of the Gollywhopper Games? It’s a nationwide competition that tests young people’s ingenuity and creativity. When Gil Goodson is selected to represent his hometown, he’s thrilled for the chance to prove himself. But the competition is fierce, and Gil must use all his wits to outsmart the other competitors and claim the top prize. Readers will love following Gil’s exploits as he faces one challenge after another. From solving puzzles to navigating obstacle courses, Gil’s journey is full of excitement and suspense.
But the Gollywhopper Games aren’t just about winning. Along the way, Gil learns important lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and believing in yourself. Through his experiences, readers will be inspired to take on challenges of their own and never give up on their dreams.
‘Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library’ by Chris Grabenstein
Have you ever wished you could spend the night in a library? For twelve-year-old Kyle Keeley, that dream becomes a reality when he wins a contest to spend a night in the brand new town library. But this is no ordinary library. It’s full of puzzles and games, and the children must work together to solve the clues and escape before the library locks them in for good. As Kyle and his friends race against the clock, they discover the magic of books and the power of teamwork.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Kyle and his friends find themselves on a quest to discover the secrets of the library’s eccentric creator, Mr. Lemoncello. Along the way, they must use their wits and creativity to solve puzzles and outsmart their opponents. This book is perfect for readers who love books that immerse them in a world of adventure and discovery.
You can find this book here.
If you’re looking for a series that will keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than ‘The 39 Clues‘. This sprawling, 11-book series follows two siblings, Dan and Amy Cahill, as they travel the globe in search of clues that will lead them to the ultimate prize: the secret of their family’s power. But they’re not alone. Other members of their family are also on the hunt, and they’ll stop at nothing to claim the prize for themselves.
Each book is written by a different author, lending a fresh voice and perspective to the ongoing mystery. From the streets of Paris to the pyramids of Egypt, Dan and Amy’s adventures take them to some of the most exciting and exotic locations in the world. But the stakes are high, and danger lurks around every corner. Readers who enjoy epic adventures and complex family dynamics will find much to love in this series.
So what are you waiting for? Grab one of these books and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!
Unforgettable Characters and Friendships
‘The Puzzling World of Winston Breen’ by Eric Berlin
Winston Breen is not your average kid. He’s a puzzle expert who loves nothing more than a good challenge. When he discovers a mysterious treasure map that requires decoding, he enlists the help of his two best friends, Katie and Hector, to solve the puzzle and uncover the treasure. Along the way, they learn valuable lessons about trust, loyalty, and the importance of working together.
Katie is the brains of the operation, always coming up with creative solutions to the puzzles they encounter. Hector is the muscle, always ready to climb a tree or lift a heavy object to help the team. Together, they make the perfect trio of puzzle-solving powerhouses.
As they work their way through the treasure map, they encounter a series of increasingly difficult puzzles. But with their combined skills and determination, they manage to crack each one, inching ever closer to the treasure. Along the way, they also learn more about themselves and each other, strengthening their bond of friendship.
You can find this book here.
‘The Name of This Book Is Secret’ by Pseudonymous Bosch
This book is narrated by a mysterious figure known only as “Pseudonymous Bosch,” who invites readers to join him on a thrilling mystery adventure. Along the way, we meet Cass, a young girl with a nose for trouble, and Max-Ernest, a loveable weirdo who becomes her sidekick. Together, they navigate a world of secret societies, hidden messages, and perilous predicaments, all while forming a deep bond of friendship.
Cass is a spunky and fearless heroine, always ready to take on whatever challenges come her way. Max-Ernest is a bit of an oddball, with a quirky sense of humor and a love of wordplay. Together, they make an unlikely but unstoppable team, using their unique skills to crack codes, decipher clues, and outsmart their enemies.
As they delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover a web of secrets and lies that threaten to tear them apart. But through it all, their friendship remains strong, providing a beacon of hope in a world of darkness and deception.
You can find this book here.
‘The Invention of Hugo Cabret’ by Brian Selznick
This unique book is part graphic novel, part illustrated novel, and all heart. The titular character, Hugo, is an orphaned boy living in a Paris train station, where he keeps the clocks running and tries to uncover the mystery of his past. Along the way, he befriends a grumpy old man named Georges Méliès, a bookish girl named Isabelle, and a host of other characters who help him on his journey.
Georges Méliès is a former film director who has fallen on hard times, bitter and disillusioned with the world. But Hugo sees something in him that no one else does, a spark of creativity and imagination that inspires him to keep going. Isabelle is a curious and intelligent girl, always eager to learn and explore. Together, they form a bond that transcends age and experience, united in their love of storytelling and adventure.
As Hugo and his friends work together to uncover the secrets of his past, they discover a world of wonder and magic that they never knew existed. And in the process, they learn that true friendship knows no bounds, and that the greatest adventures are the ones we take with the people we love.
You can find this book here.
Conclusion: Expand Your Mystery Reading List
If you’re a fan of ‘The Westing Game,’ you’re in good company. This book has captivated readers for years with its clever puzzles, memorable characters, and satisfying conclusion. But there are plenty of other books out there that offer similar thrills and challenges. Whether you’re in the mood for an epic adventure, a brain-teasing puzzle, or a heartwarming tale of friendship, there’s sure to be a book on this list that will capture your imagination and keep you engrossed from start to finish.
Eddison's writing often explores themes of self-discovery, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. Her works are characterized by their lyrical prose, intricate world-building, and strong, multidimensional female characters.
A strong advocate for independent publishing, Eddison frequently conducts workshops and seminars to guide budding writers in navigating the world of self-publishing. She also serves as a mentor for aspiring authors, providing them with the knowledge and tools to pursue their dreams.
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