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

In the midst of 1967, a young girl named Claudia, who has a passion for classical art and history, becomes disenchanted with her life in Connecticut, particularly with her parents' strict rules and the lack of excitement. Her brother, Jamie, a free-spirited six-year-old, shares her feelings, and together they hatch a plan to escape the monotony of their lives by running away from home. Claudia, who possesses a sharp and inquisitive mind, takes it upon herself to prepare for their journey, meticulously planning their departure, from packing meager supplies to creating a disguise for Jamie. On a cold winter evening, they set out on their adventure, making their way to the bustling city of New York, where they have decided to find refuge. Their destination is the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art, where Claudia had previously visited and fallen in love with the ancient and beautiful statues on display. As the siblings make their way through the museum's grand halls, they feel a sense of freedom they have never experienced before. They settle into a cozy alcove behind a statue, making the museum a temporary home. Here, they spend their days exploring the various galleries, admiring works of art, and learning about the history behind each piece. Claudia is particularly fascinated by a small, exquisite statue of a medieval angel and becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind it. The statue bears an inscription, stating that it was a work by a renowned artist, Renaissance sculptor Antonio Canova. However, Claudia suspects that it may not be authentic, and she makes it her mission to unmask the truth. As Claudia delves deeper into her research, she encounters Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, a kind-hearted and wise older woman who is the museum's curator of the sculpture department. Claudia is drawn to Mrs. Frankweiler's warmth and intelligence, and she confides in her about the angel statue. Mrs. Frankweiler is impressed by Claudia's curiosity and her analytical mind, and she encourages her to continue her research. As Claudia and Jamie delve deeper into the mystery of the angel statue, they begin to unravel a complex web of art history, museum politics, and family secrets. Meanwhile, the museum staff is on high alert, searching for the missing siblings. They post flyers, interview witnesses, and scour the galleries, but Claudia and Jamie remain one step ahead, always staying hidden in the shadows. Claudia, who has become an expert on art forgery, begins to suspect that the angel statue may not be the only fake on display at the museum. She and Jamie start their own investigation, using their keen eyes and sharp wits to identify other possibly forged works. As the days pass, Claudia's quest for truth becomes an obsession. She becomes more determined to expose the fake statue, but her actions begin to put her in a precarious position. Mrs. Frankweiler, who has grown fond of Claudia, tries to caution her against taking risks, but Claudia is driven by her desire for knowledge and her need to prove herself. The stakes become higher when a prominent art collector offers a substantial sum for the angel statue, sparking a heated debate within the museum's administration. As Claudia and Jamie's adventure reaches its climax, they are cornered by the museum staff. However, their resourcefulness and quick thinking allow them to evade capture. In the end, Claudia's relentless pursuit of truth pays off, and she is able to uncover the shocking truth behind the angel statue. The forgery is exposed, and the museum's reputation is salvaged. In the end, Claudia and Jamie are found and reunited with their overjoyed parents. Although they face a stern lecture, their parents acknowledge that they must respect Claudia's intelligence and creativity. Claudia's parents return home with their children, but Claudia's experiences at the museum have changed her. She has developed a newfound appreciation for art and history, and her encounter with Mrs. Frankweiler has sparked a lifelong passion for learning. As they settle back into their routine, Claudia begins to see the world in a new light, one that is filled with beauty, mystery, and endless possibilities.