Emily
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
I just recently read Salt to the Sea and was extremely shocked as to how this tragedy has gone unspoken of in classes. What made you choose the sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff as your topic of Salt to the Sea? And what inspired your characters? Loved your book!
Ruta Sepetys
Hi Emily!
Thanks for reading "Salt to the Sea." My father's cousin was supposed to be on the ship and when she shared the story with me I knew that I had to write about it. While researching the novel I was reminded of how many regions and countries were affected and suffered during the evacuation. When I interviewed people from those different countries, I realized that every human being views history through their own cultural lens so I created characters who would give voice to a particular regional experience and allow the reader to look through their "lens."
Thanks again!
Thanks for reading "Salt to the Sea." My father's cousin was supposed to be on the ship and when she shared the story with me I knew that I had to write about it. While researching the novel I was reminded of how many regions and countries were affected and suffered during the evacuation. When I interviewed people from those different countries, I realized that every human being views history through their own cultural lens so I created characters who would give voice to a particular regional experience and allow the reader to look through their "lens."
Thanks again!
More Answered Questions
Alyssa Daniele
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
I am a huge fan of Between Shade of Grey, I always suggest them to my friends who have the same love for reading as me. I was wondering why you did the ending the way you did? I felt as though the stories just kind of stopped, I wish I could have seen Lina be released. I did however love the idea of having her leave behind a letter. What inspired you to write such an ending?
Kylie
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
"Between Shades of Gray" and "Out Of The Easy" are some my favorite books. I saw that some people on twitter have gotten your book that will come out in February this year "Salt To The Sea". I was wondering how they were able to get it and if there will be a change to get it before February? Thank you!
Hannah Wood
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hi! I read Between Shades of Gray in school this year and I loved it! I love how you actually took the time to research the topic. I would like to know what made you write this book on this particular topic? Why did you not want to write a fantasy book? I loved your book so much though. And I'm looking forward to seeing the movie. And read the rest of the books.
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