Lindsey
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Ruta, I absolutely adored Between Shades of Gray. As a teacher, I'm always discussing different tools that writers use to get their ideas on paper. Would you be willing to share some details about your writing process? For example, how often do you write? How do you decide the sequencing and the point-of-view in your books? Thanks!
Ruta Sepetys
Hello Lindsey!
Thanks for this question about the writing process. History provides a framework for me and I love creating characters and inserting them into that framework. I outline very loosely, take tons of notes, keep a journal for each novel, and even record voice notes.
My process also involves:
• carefully researching the topic
• interviewing witnesses or survivors
• spending time thinking about the characters and story
• spending hours writing and achieving a state of creative flow
• revising, revising, and revising some more
Thanks so much for asking!
Thanks for this question about the writing process. History provides a framework for me and I love creating characters and inserting them into that framework. I outline very loosely, take tons of notes, keep a journal for each novel, and even record voice notes.
My process also involves:
• carefully researching the topic
• interviewing witnesses or survivors
• spending time thinking about the characters and story
• spending hours writing and achieving a state of creative flow
• revising, revising, and revising some more
Thanks so much for asking!
More Answered Questions
Alex
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hi Ruta!! So exciting to see you are accepting questions. Mine is that I am interested in writing a book (or my part of the book) using the same multi-person narrative that you did. I enjoyed Salt to the Sea so much, and wondered if you had any advice on the best way to go about doing that? since your character narratives flowed so wonderfully well with each other, which made it so nice to read. Thank you!!
Madison Ellcessor
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hi! My name is Madison and I am a HUGE fan of your work. I myself, am working on writing. I compete in writing competitions and post my stories online. You being the successful and wonderful person you are, I was wondering, what has been your biggest struggle when writing your books? And how exactly do you conquer this obstacle? Thank you so much for your time.
Sydney Robertson
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hello Ruta! I am incredibly fond of your novels and own all of them so I may read your beautiful words whenever I choose. When I am done reading one of your spectacular novels I ask myself questions about the world's current state, so thank you for helping me gain new perspectives. I am wondering what questions about this current state drive you to write historical fiction that explores the ways we have gotten here?
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