Zlata’s diary opens with the new school year ahead. Starting fifth grade, she looks forward to seeing schoolmates, many of whom she did not see for the entire summer. She recalls some of the fascinating places her friends went on summer vacation and describes the classes she is now taking. She enjoys piano and solfeggio, plays tennis, and looks forward to woodworking in her workshop class. Her lessons are her biggest “responsibility,” and she spends time studying as well as attending parties. At her friend Ivana’s birthday celebration, she wins a dance contest and a jewelry box.

In mid-October, officials call Zlata’s father to serve in the reserves. The family puts their ski trip on hold to accommodate his new schedule. Though many things feel normal, such as watching American Top 20 on MTV and continuing with lessons, the rumor of war hangs over the family. Reservists from Montenegro have entered Bosnia, and Zlata worries that the type of war occurring in Slovenia and Croatia is now coming to Bosnia-Herzegovina. Family friends like Srdjan in Dubrovnik, Croatia, endure shelling and have had their water, electricity, and phone lines discontinued. News stories show horrible pictures, and her parents are more worried than usual.