Ellen Raskin was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and grew up during the Great Depression. She was the author of several novels, including the Newbery Medal-winning The Westing Game, the Newbery Honor-winning Figgs & Phantoms,The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues, and The Mysterious Disappearance of Leon (I Mean Noel). She also wrote and illustrated many picture books and was an accomplished graphic artist. She also designed dust jackets for dozens of books, including the first edition of Madeleine L'Engle's classic A Wrinkle in Time.
Praise for The Westing Game * A supersharp mystery...confoundingly clever, and very funny. --Booklist, starred review Great fun for those who enjoy illusion, word play, or sleight of hand.--The New York Times Book Review A fascinating medley of word games, disguises, multiple aliases, and subterfuges--a demanding but rewarding book.--The Horn Book