Ellen Raskin was a highly regarded American children's author, illustrator, and designer. She was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and grew up during the Great Depression, which may have influenced her writing and artistic style. Raskin is best known for her novel "The Westing Game," which won the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1979. The book has since been recognized as one of the top ten children's novels of all time by the School Library Journal.
Raskin's impact on children's literature is undeniable. In addition to "The Westing Game," she wrote several other notable books for young readers. One of these is "Figgs & Phantoms," which was a Newbery Honor Book in 1975. Raskin's writing is characterized by its intelligence, wit, and creativity, which have captivated generations of young readers.
In addition to her work as an author, Raskin was also an accomplished graphic artist. She designed dozens of dust jackets for books, including the first edition of Madeleine L'Engle's classic "A Wrinkle in Time." Her artistic talent is evident in her illustrations for her own books, which add depth and visual interest to her stories.
Raskin's legacy in the world of children's literature continues to this day. She passed away in 1984 at the age of 56 due to complications from connective tissue disease. However, her work remains a beloved and important part of the genre. Posthumous collections of her work have been published, ensuring that her unique voice and vision will continue to inspire and delight readers for years to come.