Zlata's Diary

Reading Check and Short Answer questions on key plot points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

Part 1: Preface and Introduction (vii-xxx)

Reading Check

1. Where does Zlata currently live?

2. What instrument does Zlata play despite the danger?

3. To what famous diarist does reporter Janine di Giovanni compare Zlata?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. What does Filipović say were her reasons for keeping a diary?

2. How does Filipović say the diary has changed since being shared with an international audience?

3. How does reporter Janine di Giovanni characterize Zlata?

Paired Resource

“Every Surviving War Child has Two Stories: One from the War and One from its Aftermath”

• This article, written by an adult Zlata Filipović, speaks out about the experiences of war-affected children and argues for further social and educational supports to address the needs of children displaced by war.
• The article connects to themes of Coming of Age During War and Loss Due to War.
• Filipović claims that storytelling is a form of advocacy in the preface to Zlata’s Diary. In what ways does this article advance an agenda for children impacted by war? Does using her story in the service of a social or political agenda undermine her diary as a primary source? Why or why not?