The Westing Game: The Delivery Boy is Doug Hoo (Not Turtle Wexler)

In Ellen Raskin's Newbery Medal winner The Westing Game, the delivery boy is **Doug Hoo**, nicknamed **"Turtle"** (not to be confused with Turtle Wexler — Tabitha-Ruth "Turtle" Wexler is a separate main character).

Clarifying the Characters

• Doug Hoo: High school track star, son of James Hoo (restaurateur). **Delivers the 16 letters** inviting heirs to Sunset Towers / reading of the will. Earns $5 per letter. Observant, pragmatic, becomes a track coach later.
• Tabitha-Ruth "Turtle" Wexler: 13-year-old genius, daughter of Grace & Jake Wexler. **Kicks people in the shins.** **Wins the game** (identifies Westing's 4th identity). Becomes a successful investor. **Not the delivery boy.**

Why the Confusion?

• Both nicknamed "Turtle" (Doug's track crouch → "Turtle"; T.R. Wexler → "Turtle").
• Both central to the plot's movement.
• Some summaries conflate them.

Key Plot Role of Doug Hoo

1. Delivers invitations (Ch. 1) — sets the game in motion.
2. Partners with Theo Theodorakis (later) for clues.
3. Provides alibi/timeline info (saw Otis Amber, etc.).
4. Represents the "ordinary kid" grounded in reality vs. the eccentric heirs.

Answer: The delivery boy is **Doug Hoo**. The shin-kicking mastermind is **Turtle Wexler**.