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53 pages 1 hour read

Zach's Lie

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade

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Book Brief

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Roland Smith

Zach's Lie

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Nevada • Contemporary

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.3

5,195 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Zach's Lie?

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.

4.3

5,195 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Jack Osborne / Zach Granger

A thoughtful and imaginative boy who becomes involved in the Witness Security Program, transitioning from Jack to Zach, and using writing to cope with the challenges of his new life.

An older custodian at Elko Middle School and a former KGB colonel, who becomes a mentor figure for Zach, offering friendship and guidance while hiding his own secrets.

The primary antagonist tied to a drug cartel who is actively pursuing the Osborne family, utilizing deceit and violence to achieve his goals.

A student at Elko Middle School who holds a grudge against Zach, eventually becoming a secondary antagonist by using Zach's journal as leverage.

A kind and perceptive girl from Elko who befriends Zach and stands up for him, eventually becoming an important influence on his sense of belonging in Elko.

A former Navy fighter pilot and father to Jack (Zach), whose involvement in illegal activities introduces danger to the family but also reflects his willingness to make amends.

Zach's mother, who is initially furious with Neil but focuses on protecting her children and rebuilding their lives by opening a bookstore.

Zach's outgoing and dramatic sister, who quickly adapts to their new life in Elko and pursues her dream of becoming an actress, showing courage in the face of change.

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Nevada • Contemporary

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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