The Mixed Up Files

This month's Super Readers book was The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg. Twelve year old Claudia decides she's had enough of home and runs away with her little brother to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While there, they discover a mystery surrounding a small sculpture. This story is a fantastic family read, combining family dynamics, adventure, investigation and secrets.

Things to talk about...

What's fair? Are Claudia's chores fair? Is it fair to her parents for her to run away?

Why are secrets so exciting? Is it still fun if nobody knows you have a secret?

Where would you like to run away to? (This is a question for grownups too!)

Activities...

Eat peanut butter crackers and chocolate bars.

Check out an art book, like Name That Style and The Art Book for Children, and look at art together.

Create your own masterpieces using yarn, fingerpaints, clay or anything else you have handy!