Jill Forrest asked Ruta Sepetys:

This question contains spoilers… (view spoiler)

Ruta Sepetys Hi Jill,

Wow, I'm so grateful that you felt Lina was a role model. The idea for the character of Lina came from a woman I interviewed in Lithuania. She was a teenager in Siberia and her story was so powerful, her hope so strong. The Soviets had taken her family, her country, but she wouldn't let them take her spirit. She found a way to speak, even though her voice had been extinguished. She became a role model for me so I used her to create Lina. It makes me indescribably happy that you say she inspires you. Thank you!

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I am a HUGE fan of your books and an aspiring author. How do you come up with your book ideas? Also -- do you have any music you like to listen to while writing? (all of your books have honored places on my "favorites" book shelf btw!!)

Allie Kim asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi Ruta! I just wanted to say I loved your book. It was definitely informative (without being too dry), and at the same time, it was a real tear-jerker. My question is, where do you get the idea for your books? Also, what is the process that you usually go through in order to write a book?

Valerie Gonzalez asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi Ruta! I read your book Between Shades of Gray a few years back and I continue to be touched by the story which is truly inspiring. How did you find your inspiration for your book and how did you begin writing it?

All answers from Ruta Sepetys…

Ruta Sepetys

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I am a HUGE fan of your books and an aspiring author. How do you come up with your book ideas? Also -- do you have any music you like to listen to while writing? (all of your books have honored places on my "favorites" book shelf btw!!)

Hi Ruta! I just wanted to say I loved your book. It was definitely informative (without being too dry), and at the same time, it was a real tear-jerker. My question is, where do you get the idea for your books? Also, what is the process that you usually go through in order to write a book?

Hi Ruta! I read your book Between Shades of Gray a few years back and I continue to be touched by the story which is truly inspiring. How did you find your inspiration for your book and how did you begin writing it?

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