111 pages • 3 hours read
Zlata's Diary
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Book Brief
240
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Sarajevo, Bosnia • 1990s
1993
YA
10-14 years
640L
Super Short Summary
Zlata's Diary by Zlata Filipović traces her life as a child during the Siege of Sarajevo, from 1991 to 1993. Through diary entries, Filipović describes the impact of the Bosnian War on her daily life, the loss and terror experienced, and her resilience maintained through the support of family and friends. The diary gained international recognition, leading to a book deal and her eventual evacuation to Paris. The text depicts graphic violence, forced displacement, catastrophic injury, and suicidal ideation.
Melancholic
Emotional
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
12,322 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Zlata Filipović's Zlata's Diary offers a poignant, child's perspective on the horrors of the Bosnian War. Reviewers praise its authenticity, emotional depth, and educational value, likening it to Anne Frank's diary. However, some note that its simplicity may limit deeper historical insights. Overall, it is a powerful, heartbreaking account of a young girl's resilience.
Who Should Read Zlata's Diary?
A reader who would enjoy Zlata's Diary by Zlata Filipović is likely interested in personal, poignant accounts of historical events, particularly from a child's perspective. Similar to The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, this book appeals to those captivated by true stories of resilience during conflict and social upheaval.
12,322 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Maja
Maja
Zlata's good friend and neighbor who supports her, playing a significant role in the publication of Zlata's diary.
Nedo
Nedo
Zlata's neighbor who works with UNPROFOR, providing her access to unusual supplies that bring her comfort during the war.
Radovan Karadžić
Radovan Karadžić
The first president of the Republika Srpska during the Bosnian War, known for his involvement in the Siege of Sarajevo and other conflict events as recounted by Zlata.
Alija Izetbegovic
Alija Izetbegovic
The first chairman of the presidency of the independent Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina, featured in Zlata’s diary through televised arguments and political developments.
Goran Milić
Goran Milić
A journalist and television personality mentioned by Zlata for his role during a broadcasted argument between political leaders.
Milutin Kukanjac
Milutin Kukanjac
A general of the Yugoslav People's Army, mentioned in Zlata’s diary in connection with military movements toward Sarajevo.
Anne Frank
Anne Frank
Jewish German teenager known for her diary written during WWII, with whom Zlata sees parallels in her own experience of wartime documentation.
François Léotard
François Léotard
The French Defense Minister who plays a role in facilitating Zlata’s family’s relocation from Sarajevo.
Jean-Christophe Rufin
Jean-Christophe Rufin
A French doctor and diplomat who assists in negotiating Zlata’s family’s departure from Sarajevo.
Nadrilisti
Nadrilisti
A Sarajevo-based sketch comedy group that provides comedy relief for Zlata and her family during tense moments in the war.
Janine di Giovanni
Janine di Giovanni
A war correspondent who visits and interviews Zlata and her family, helping to convey their story to the world.
240
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Sarajevo, Bosnia • 1990s
1993
YA
10-14 years
640L
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