20. From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg

FROM THE MIXED-UP FILES OF MRS. BASIL E. FRANKWEILER by E.L. Konigsburg (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 1967)

GENRE: Mystery

HONORS: John Newbery Medal Winner, ALA Notable Book, “Best of the Best” School Library Journal, The Horn Book Fanfare List, William Allen White Children’s Book Award

REVIEW:

Bothered by the injustice that being the oldest child and only girl brought, Claudia Kincaid decides to run away from home, bringing along her second youngest brother, Jamie, for company and financial support after reasoning that he is the most responsible with his money.  Hating any type of discomfort, Claudia plans to run to someplace warm and comfortable, as well as beautiful—the Metropolitan Museum of Art.  After hiding in the museum’s bathrooms and then keeping under the radar, Claudia and Jamie find a nice 16^th century bed and make it their home.  Once the kids learn about the Angel statue rumored to be one of Michelangelo’s creations, they embark on a journey to discover the true sculptor, taking them right to Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler’s door.

OPINION:

The library copy of this book that I checked out includes this on the back: “Thirty years, two motion pictures, and millions of devoted fans later, From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler remains a modern classic, a favorite of children and adults alike.”  Having never heard of the novel prior to taking this class, I wanted to see what I had been missing.  Although there are a few dated references, this book stands the test of time and I found it really enjoyable and interesting.  Because Mrs. Frankweiler narrates the story, I was interested to find out how she knew about the kids and I was very satisfied with the way that she is finally brought into the story.  Also, I really enjoyed living vicariously through the children as they explored the museum after hours and slept in the gorgeous 16^th century bed.  Tweens will especially enjoy the relationship between Claudia and Jamie, with many recognizing themselves and their siblings in the characters.

IDEAS:

This book would be perfect for library displays about Newbery winning books and tween mystery novels.  It would also be a fun book for a library program on different museums around the country, helping fuel discussion about what tweens would do if they could stay overnight in a museum.