Mely

Mely asked Ruta Sepetys:

How did you choose the four perspectives that you chose? Did you want the reader to know different sides of the war?

Ruta Sepetys Hi Mely!

Thanks for this great question.

When I was researching "Salt to the Sea" 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 four different characters who would give voice to a particular regional experience and allow the reader to look through their "lens." So yes, you're absolutely right! I wanted the reader to understand the different sides of the war.

Thanks for asking!

More Answered Questions

Morgan

Morgan asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi Ruta!!! I am a HUGE fan of Salt to the Sea and Between Shades of Gray! I love how you give famous events a new perspective, and I feel like I'm really learning as well when I read your books! How do you get inspiration for all of your different characters? They always seem so real, and though I have never been through what they are going through, they are always relatable! Thank you!!

Sydney

Sydney asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hello Ruta! I recently read "Between Shades of Gray" and was deeply connected to the novel. My grandparents shared many of the experiences you described, and I was amazed of how detailed you wrote while keeping the facts straight. My question is how did you research for this novel? Are there any new books to be expected in the near future? Thank you!

Greta Yeager

Greta Yeager asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi! I'm both a history buff and avid reader, so your books are some of my favorites. I was wondering if you were going to write another historical fiction book. If so, what it will be about? Thank you!

All answers from Ruta Sepetys…

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