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

Claudia knew that she could never pull off the old-fashioned kind of running away... so she decided not to run FROM somewhere, but TO somewhere.

This is a very entertaining book about a girl named Claudia Kincaid and her adventures with her stingy brother Jamie.

Claudia is the oldest in the Kincaid household and feels ignored. The only thing to do is run away. Then the whole family (in about a week or so) would begin to realize that she, Claudia Kincaid, is not to be taken lightly.
Claudia convinced her younger brother Jamie to join her on this excursion. So, with careful planning (done by Claudia), she and Jamie left for New York - Claudia with her violin case full of clothes and Jamie with his trumpet case stuffed with his belongings.

Upon arriving in New York, Claudia decided that she and Jamie were to stay at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This would nicely fulfill full Claudia's requirements for accommodations as it was large, comfortable, and beautiful. Claudia had a strong dislike of being uncomfortable. She even hated picnics. She also had a theory that night guards only look under the stall door in the bathroom so if she and Jamie stand on the toilet seat the night guards won't see their feet. And the big bed on display would be perfect for sleeping in.

It isn't long before Claudia finds a display in the museum that no one knows the maker of. Whenever Claudia sees the display she feels like she needs to find out more about it. She figures that it's up to her to find out who made it since the museum isn't making too much of an effort. So she explores the library, examines the statue, and talks to people. Then she finds out that one person, Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, might hold the key to the entire mystery.

I feel that this book would be enjoyed by ALL age groups.

My favourite character is Claudia. I like the way she carefully plans things through before she carries through with them and how she doesn't let anything discourage her from finding the truth. That is one thing that I learned from this book. Never give up.

9/10 stars