From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
Konigsburg, E. (1968). From the mixed-up files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. New York: Atheneum.
Summary
Claudia decides to run away to New York City and decides to invite her brother Jamie along because, well, he has money to finance her trip. They hide out in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, doing everything from taking baths to sleeping there. A statue is unveiled during their stay and they set out to solve the mystery of its origin, and find the answer from a eccentric woman named Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. In the end they keep the answer to themselves and return home. Claudia, who hoped to become "different" on her adventure, gets her wish because of the answer they find.
Impression
I really enjoyed this story and have recommended it to several students since I read it. I know as a child I thought about running away when I felt especially mad at my parents, but always came to the conclusion that it would be a dangerous and irrational thing to do. Claudia and Jamie however have a grand adventure when they run away and they end up solving a historical puzzle. Claudia finds out more about herself on the trip, and her soul searching is relevant to the coming of age trials that many children her age go through.
Review
For 35 years, even readers who have never traveled to New York City have visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art, courtesy of Claudia Kincaid, heroine of From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg. Winner of the 1968 Newbery Medal, this novel charts one girl's mission to run away from her straight-As life to somewhere beautiful-the Met. In the process, she becomes obsessed with uncovering the secrets of a breathtaking statue. A 35th-anniversary dust jacket and a new afterword by the author caps this adventure that has captivated readers for more than a quarter-century.
Publisher's Weekly (2002). 249(49).
Library Use
This is just a fun story to recommend to students. There's adventure, a little bit of mystery, and sibling dynamic, which speaks to a vast majority of children.
Holes
Sachar, L. (1999). Holes. New York: Dell Yearling.
Stanley Yelnats is cursed, and comes from a line of cursed Yelnats men. A misunderstanding lands him in a camp for juvenile delinquents, digging holes in the desert all day long. During his stay he learn that there is more to digging all of those holes than just punishment, and ultimately ends up breaking the family curse.
Impression
I cannot believe it took me so long to read this book! I absolutely loved it and the message it sends about overcoming the hand your dealt. You can't always avoid the things that happen to you, but you can continually stand up for what's right, be kind to others, love your family, and always try to do your best.
Review
PW's starred review of the 1999 Newbery Medal winner described it as a "dazzling blend of social commentary, tall tale and magic realism." Ages 10-up.
Publisher's Weekly (2000). 246(20).
Library Use
This would be a great book to include in a book talk about life choices and making the most of what you have. It is also a great read aloud book.
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