Nicole
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hey, Ruta! I'm from Lebanon and have read Between Shades of Gray. It's amazing, I love historical fiction especially those of WWII. So my question is: were you always interested in history and how did it influence your writing career exactly? If you wanted to write other historical novels, which different period would you choose? Why?
Ruta Sepetys
Hi Nicole!
So thrilled that you are sending a question, all the way from Lebanon! :)
I wasn't really interested in history as a subject in school, but I've always been fascinated by historical secrets. Writing historical fiction is like being a detective. I love discovering 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!
There are many periods I'd love to write about. I'd love to write a novel set in the '20's and a novel set during the Depression. Those two time periods are rich with both strength and struggle.
So thrilled that you are sending a question, all the way from Lebanon! :)
I wasn't really interested in history as a subject in school, but I've always been fascinated by historical secrets. Writing historical fiction is like being a detective. I love discovering 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!
There are many periods I'd love to write about. I'd love to write a novel set in the '20's and a novel set during the Depression. Those two time periods are rich with both strength and struggle.
More Answered Questions
Wendy Kendall
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hi Ruta, Thank you for taking questions. I so enjoyed Out of the Easy. The characters were amazing and the descriptions lifted me out of my life for awhile, and gave me a real feel for the people and place. Your dialog and also your text read almost lyrically. I was wondering if you have any musical background or inspiration in your writing? I'm looking forward to now reading more of your books. Wendy
A Goodreads user
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Could you explain the letter at the end of Salt to the Sea that was addressed to Florian? I love your books by the way :)
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more