53 pages • 1 hour read
Roland SmithZach's Lie
Fiction | Novel | Middle GradeA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Essay Topics
Why did Smith title the novel Zach’s Lie? What does the title tell the reader about the book? How does it draw the reader into the story? What is Zach’s lie?
Describe several ways that Smith builds suspense in the novel. What is the effect of this suspense on the reader?
Zach has kept a diary since he was nine years old. Why is journaling important to him? How do journals cause trouble for Zach and his family? How do they help?
How do Zach and Wanda’s responses to their new lives in Elko differ? Is one sibling more successful at adapting that the other? Explain your answer.
Zach must keep his identity secret but has difficulty lying. Why do you think Zach has trouble lying? Think of two other characters in the novel who are keeping secrets. Do their secrets harm or protect others? Discuss.
Zach loves his dad, even though Neil committed crimes. Do you think Neil was a good father and husband? Why or why not? Cite evidence from the text to support your answer.
How do Zach, Wanda, and Mary each react to Neil’s arrest? Does the “family tragedy” bring them together, or drive them apart?
Catalin, Peter, and Zach have very different family lives. How do their families influence each character’s personalities? Give evidence from the text to support your answer.
Why does Peter give information about Zach to Aznar? Do you think his actions are justified? Why or not?
Sam’s nickname is Unai, meaning shepherd in Basque. Consider the meaning of the word “shepherd.” In what ways does Sam guide and look after his flock at Elko Middle School? In your opinion, is Sam a hero? Why or why not?
Related Titles
By Roland Smith
