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?