Ellen Raskin author page

Ellen Raskin biography

Ellen Raskin was an American author and illustrator known for her contributions to children’s literature. She studied at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she earned a degree in fine arts. Raskin began her career as a commercial artist and became recognised for designing book jackets, including the original cover for A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle.

Raskin wrote and illustrated several picture books, as well as novels for young readers. Her works often feature puzzles, wordplay, and inventive storytelling. Among her notable books are The Mysterious Disappearance of Leon (I Mean Noel) and The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues. She is perhaps best known for her novel The Westing Game, which was published in 1978.

The Westing Game received the Newbery Medal in 1979, recognising it as a distinguished contribution to American literature for children.