Zach's Lie by Roland Smith receives praise for its engaging and fast-paced plot, relatable characters, and the portrayal of complex themes such as identity and trust. However, some reviews note that the story can be predictable at times and that certain elements feel underdeveloped. Overall, it is recommended for younger readers seeking an adventurous narrative.

Readers who enjoy suspenseful, fast-paced action adventures and coming-of-age stories like Hatchet by Gary Paulsen or Holes by Louis Sachar will be captivated by Zach's Lie by Roland Smith. The novel is perfect for middle schoolers who appreciate thrilling narratives and relatable characters facing extraordinary challenges.

Zach’s Lie by Roland Smith follows 13-year-old Jack Osborne, who enters the Witness Security Program with his family after his father’s arrest for drug-running with a dangerous drug boss. Relocated to Elko, Nevada, they adopt new identities, but Jack struggles with the deception, makes new friends, confronts bullies, and ultimately faces threats from his father's criminal past as they try to build a new life. The book addresses kidnapping.

Suspenseful / Adventurous / Mysterious / Emotional

Roland Smith

Middle grade

Novel

Zach's Lie

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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content

Overview

Get ready to explore Zach's Lie and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Zach's Lie Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Flight”

Part 1, Chapters 1-6

Zach's Lie Part 1, Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Three E’s”

Part 2, Chapters 7-11

Zach's Lie Part 2, Chapters 7-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 12-16

Zach's Lie Part 2, Chapters 12-16 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Zach in the Box”

Part 3, Chapters 17-21

Zach's Lie Part 3, Chapters 17-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 22-26

Zach's Lie Part 3, Chapters 22-26 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Zach's Lie Character Analysis

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Themes

Zach's Lie Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Zach's Lie Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Zach's Lie Literary Devices

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Important Quotes

Zach's Lie Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Zach's Lie Essay Topics

Zach's Lie

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Zach's Lie?

Reading Age

Book Details