Ellen Ermingard Raskin (March 13, 1928 - August 8, 1984) was an American writer, illustrator and fashion designer. She was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She was educated at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. Primarily a children's author, she received the 1979 Newbery Medal for her 1978 book The Westing Game and a 1975 Newbery Honor for her 1974 book Figgs & Phantoms. She was also an accomplished graphic artist. Raskin died at the age of 56 on August 8, 1984 in New York City.