From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler

by E.L. Konigsburg
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Children's Fiction
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Format • £9.49
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 10942
  • Added: 2026-02-15
  • Updated: 2026-02-22
  • ISBN: 9781416949756
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2007-09-25
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 3

Twelve-year-old Claudia, determined to make a statement, runs away from home with her younger brother Jamie. Their chosen refuge is the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, where they plan to live in secret. Claudia aims to keep their new home in order and hopes that this adventure will transform her into a heroine in her own eyes. As they explore the museum's wonders, the siblings stumble upon a mysterious statue that leads them on a thrilling quest. Their journey is filled with discovery, intrigue, and personal growth, making this a memorable adventure that challenges their perceptions and changes them forever.

Reviews
Sis and Chrys · 2021-04-27
amazing 4.50

The novel is filled with humor, history, and a sense of child-like wonder that consistently amazed the reader. It is a unique story that respects the intelligence and curiosity of its young audience.

This review highlights the novel's charm and the way it captures the essence of childhood adventure. The reviewer was consistently amazed by the blend of humor, history, and wonder that the book offers. It's clear that the story is not just entertaining but also respectful of its young readers, allowing them to explore and learn in a fun and engaging way. The reviewer appreciates the unique perspective and the way the book encourages children to think critically and creatively.

Quick quotes

    Basil E. Frankweiler" is a unique novel that's filled with humour, history, and a whole lot of child-like wonder.

    I was consistently amazed at how the author weaves together different elements to create a compelling story.

    The novel is a testament to the power of curiosity and the joy of discovery.

The BookBag · 2018-03-29
engaging 3.75

The book is a childhood favorite but feels a bit dated with its low prices and old-fashioned language. It's still a fun and engaging read.

The reviewer revisits this childhood favorite and finds it a bit dated, noting the low prices and old-fashioned language like 'petticoat'. Despite these dated elements, the reviewer still finds the book to be a fun and engaging read. They appreciate the clever plot and the way the book encourages readers to think about history and art. The reviewer acknowledges that while the book may not hold up perfectly to modern standards, it's still a worthwhile read for both children and adults.

Quick quotes

    Revisiting this childhood favourite, I found it a tiny bit dated, what with the impossibly low prices and Claudia wearing a 'petticoat'.

    The clever plot and the way the book encourages readers to think about history and art.

    It's still a fun and engaging read, despite its dated elements.

Tony's Reading List · Tony · 2015-07-26
beloved 4.75

The book is a beloved childhood favorite that the reviewer adored. It is a story that stands the test of time and continues to captivate readers.

Tony shares a personal connection to the book, having loved it as a child. They highlight how the story has stood the test of time and continues to captivate readers. The reviewer appreciates the clever plot and the way the book encourages readers to think about history and art in a new way. Tony's enthusiasm for the book is evident, and they encourage others to read and enjoy it as well.

Quick quotes

    I LOVED this book as a child and was not disappointed upon rereading it.

    The clever plot and the way the book encourages readers to think about history and art in a new way.

    It's a story that stands the test of time and continues to captivate readers.

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