Recognized as a popular and influential author of comic fantasy for adults, Elizabeth Ann Scarborough is also the creator of realistic fiction for middle graders--published under the name Elizabeth Scarboro-- that is praised for its well-developed characterizations and authentic depiction of children's feelings. As Elizabeth Ann Scarborough, she has written works that characteristically blend humor and fantasy to describe earthy protagonists, chiefly female, and charming animals who embark on exciting quests; Scarborough has also collaborated with fantasist Anne McCaffrey on a series of science fiction novels. Published for adults but appreciated by young people, her books are acknowledged for their originality, intelligence, and unconventionality as well as for their wit, fast pace, and light-hearted approach. In the fantasy genre, Scarborough is perhaps best known as the creator of the "Argonia" and "Songkiller" series; in the former, the author describes the adventures of a cheerful young witch, Maggie Brown...