Chapter 23: Strange Answers
"'Here come the Wexlers,' Mr. Hoo announced, seating his puzzled wife at table one. Turtle exchanged an anxious glance at Angela. The last time they saw her mother she was crying her head off; now the tears were gone from her bleary eyes, but she was staggering, giggling, her hair was a mess. 'Sorry we're late,' Jake apologized. 'We lost track of time.' They had been clinking wine glasses in a small cafe (the cafe they used to go to before they were married), toasting good times. They had many good times together, many good memories shared, it seems- three big wine bottles full. Happy Grace waved at the heirs. She felt so wonderful, so overflowing with love for Jake, for everybody. 'Hi, mom,' Turtle called. Grace blinked at a young, short-haired girl. 'Who's that?' Jake greeted his partner with a "How are you this fine day?' 'Doug win,' replied Madame Hoo."
Choose and answer three of the following:
2. Describe Grace Wexler as she is in this scene. Why is she happier than usual?
3. Who doesn't Grace Wexler recognize? Is Grace a good mother? Why or why not? Provide evidence.
4. Describe how alcohol plays a role in The Westing Game. Who uses it? Who doesn't? Does anyone abuse it?
1. Describe Madame Hoo. Do you think she killed Mr. Westing? Why or why not? Pay special attention to her reply to Mr. Wexler. Is she pretending not to understand or not? Why do you think so?