midnightreadingg

midnightreadingg asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hello Rutha! I loved between shades of grey. It really did feel so real as if you experienced it firsthand. Please what was your inspiration for that novel and what allowed you to create such a realistic atmosphere?

Ruta Sepetys Hello Oluchi!

Thank you for reading "Between Shades of Gray!" I was inspired to write the novel because much of the world is not aware that Stalin deported so many people to Siberia. I wanted to write the book to create an awareness and also give voice to the people who never had a chance to tell their story. Interviewing survivors and hearing their testimony helped to create a realistic atmosphere. Thanks again!

More Answered Questions

Marcus

Marcus asked Ruta Sepetys:

Will you write a sequel to Salt to the Sea? It was a great book and I hope you write one. :D

Sara

Sara asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi! I just finished reading "Between Shades of Gray" and it was amazing! I really want to read "Salt to the Sea" because I heard that Joana, Lina's cousin, was one of the main characters in the story! I was also wondering what made you want to be an author? And I was also curious to know what are some of your favorite books, and if you have any book recommendations?

A Goodreads user

A Goodreads user asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi Ruta! I love your writing! Anyways, I wanted to ask, having recently finished "Salt to the Sea," did you make Joana one of your main characters because many people wondered about her in "Between Shades of Gray"? Or, did some other fact make that decision for you? I really loved getting answers to questions I had while reading "Between Shades of Gray," but why did YOU choose to include Joana? Thanks!

All answers from Ruta Sepetys…

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