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The Diary of a Young Girl

by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Anne Frank

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Student Question

Why is Mr. Frank a logical leader of the secret annex in Goodrich and Hackett's "The Diary of Anne Frank"?

Quick answer:

Mr. Frank is a logical leader of the secret annex because it is located above his business, and he orchestrated the hiding plan with the help of his associates. He is calm, respected, smart, organized, and has saved money to support the group. His leadership is marked by kindness and accommodation, contrasting with Mr. Van Daan's selfishness and Mr. Dussel's later arrival, which makes Mr. Frank the best choice for leading the group.

Expert Answers

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Mr. Frank is the leader in the annex because the hiding place exists above his business. Miep, Mr. Kraler, and others who help those in hiding are Mr. Frank's business associates. He, with their help, put the whole concept of living above the warehouse in the hidden loft together for the benefit of the others. Mr. Frank and friends are the ones who made the plans to move food and supplies into the hiding place months before the families are forced to leave their lives behind. Mr. Frank is also a very calm and respected gentleman who is not easily offended. He is kind and accommodating to the needs of his guests and their helpers. He is smart, organized, and has saved money to help them survive for a very long time. Mr. Van Daan wouldn't be a good leader because he is too selfish and easily provoked to anger. Mr. Dussel comes in a few months later as a guest; therefore, he doesn't have any standing to be the leader anyway. Mr. Frank, then, is the best possible choice and he takes his duty as host to all of his guests very seriously. 

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