Re-read this book for the first time as an adult. 
 Some children expressed the concern that Claudia was cold toward her family, and I can see how this is true. Perhaps, though, the children were a bit young to understand Claudia's rather teen/ tween appropriate angst or appreciate how it is resolved. It is, indeed, noticeable, that the Kincaid parents are never the focus of the storyline, but merely referenced as frantic in their search for their children. Perhaps an epilogue featuring a warmer reunion of the family would help to soften up Mrs. Frankweiler's eccentric rationalism, which carries the rest of the plot rather nicely. In this regard, I think it fails at perfection. 
 What makes it work to get so close? It's adventurous. It doesn't go too far beyond the kid sphere (though some of the dialogue was rather grown up), but focus' on food, shelter and a rather concrete mystery. It's imaginative. This isn't your run of the mill child's adventure (though I think the Night at the Museum franchise was CERTAINLY inspired by this work). It weaves in classical education through the central role of Michelangelo. The adults don't baby the children, but listen to to their concerns and share information that stretches them beyond their current knowledge base. And finally, the bizarrely lovable Mrs. Frankweiler, who embodies each of these wonderful themes, is a memorable character who still maintains some of her mystery while managing to be adorable. 
 In the end, I find the story just as enchanting as when I was first introduced to New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art as a child. it is a story that "sticks" through all the noise generated by the volumes read through the years (and I'm not just talking books, but internet, too). Through my adult lens, I found the clever reference to security changes after their adventure rather amusing, it was the vintage equivalent of "do not attempt this", though I did wonder if children accustom to such loud and pervasive cautionary statements would fail to appreciate this warning because of it's subtle nature. 
 Anyone want to try sneaking into a museum with me and attempt staying for a week? ;) 
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 I loved this book as a child. i think we read the book and then got to watch the movie in school. In fact, while i couldn't recall the title until later, i had to go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and look for the fountain years later! It's been remodeled, but you might be able to find the old movie somewhere!