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

E. L. Konigsburg

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Founder connections

  • Danny MeyerNamed as his second-favorite book growing up
    The preserved original conversation shows Dara Grumdahl’s parent tweet naming this novel, followed by Meyer’s December 21, 2019 reply calling it his second childhood favorite, just behind Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The parent context resolves the formerly missing title. His childhood edition is unknown.
    Source

Summary

E. L. Konigsburg follows Claudia and her brother Jamie as they run away to live in New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Claudia plans the trip carefully, while Jamie brings money and ideas that help them settle into the museum.

Their stay changes when Claudia becomes absorbed in the mystery of a statue and its maker. The search leads toward Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, who previously owned the work. The adventure joins the practical problems of hiding in a museum to Claudia’s wish to return home changed.

  • SourceFrom the Mixed-Up Files — original publisher description and print details · About: Claudia/Jamie live in the Metropolitan Museum and investigate a statue; author and illustrator E.L. Konigsburg; Atheneum paperback ISBN 9781416949756, September 25, 2007.

Why read it Our view

For founders interested in stories of curiosity and discovery, watch how planning and new evidence reshape the children’s original purpose. Consider how Claudia’s wish to change gives the museum mystery its personal meaning.