A Goodreads user
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hi! We were read "Between the Shades of Gray" in class last year and I adored it(although sadly can't say the same for my non-reader classmates)! The story is so beautiful and I am very excited to read "Salt to the Sea" and "Out of the Easy". I was wondering what made you want to write books about these different parts of history? Also, what makes you so into World War ll? It's one of my favorite things to study!
Ruta Sepetys
Hi Sarah!
Thanks for your very kind words!
World War II allows us to study themes of hope, courage, love, and loss. I think that is part of the attraction. Writing historical fiction is like being a detective. I love discovering secrets, hidden facts, and hidden heroes. Sometimes history can be perceived as boring. But through characters and story, historical statistics become human and suddenly we care for people we've never met, we can find their country on a map, and then - the history matters. Through historical fiction we can give voice those who will never have a chance to tell their story. That inspires me!
Thanks for your very kind words!
World War II allows us to study themes of hope, courage, love, and loss. I think that is part of the attraction. Writing historical fiction is like being a detective. I love discovering secrets, hidden facts, and hidden heroes. Sometimes history can be perceived as boring. But through characters and story, historical statistics become human and suddenly we care for people we've never met, we can find their country on a map, and then - the history matters. Through historical fiction we can give voice those who will never have a chance to tell their story. That inspires me!
More Answered Questions
Megan
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hi Ruta! You have become my favorite author of all time. I can't stop talking about Between Shades of Gray. Everyone that I have recommend your book to they all fall in love with it just like I have. My question for you is: are you ever going to come to the Seattle Washington area or Bellingham Washington? I would love to meet you. Thank you for writing my favorite book!
Dodie Brunton
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
I thoroughly enjoyed "Between Shades of Gray" so when I heard about "Salt to the Sea" I read it right away. I love historical fiction and you have a wonderful way of enlightening readers about lesser known events during the WWII/Holocaust time period. What I particularly like about "Salt to the Sea" is that the story is told from 4 different points of view. What made you decide to use this vehicle to tell the story?
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