Margaret Mahy needs no introduction to anyone reading or working in the area of children's literature over the past forty years. Twice winner of the prestigious Carnegie Medal, and twice short listed for the Hans Christian Anderson Award, amongst numerous other awards and achievements, she is universally acknowledged as one of world's most inventive and brilliant writers for children. The story of her life as a writer provides a fascinating insight into the creative life of a unique mind, and the influence of her personal and public roles on the creative process provides a fascinating portrait of the artist that is Margaret. Written by her close friend and esteemed colleague, Tessa Duder, this thoroughly researched biography of a leading writer will be warmly received by Margaret's legion of readers, admirers and those who wish to follow in her footsteps.