Debra Olsen
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
I know that the displaced Lithuanians suffered horribly under the Soviets but what I found most horrifying about your novel was that the victims upon returning home were still in prison. How long was it in the Baltic Countries before people could communicate with each other about the inhumanity they had suffered. When did the truth come out, verbally, not in buried writings and art?
Ruta Sepetys
Thank you so much for your question, Debra! It is haunting that the survivors weren't able to speak of the atrocities they'd suffered. What I've found through my research is that most chose never to speak about it, and some chose only to speak about it at or toward the end of their lives, which is why the history has been primarily preserved through art.
More Answered Questions
Amanda
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
I am a grade 8 English teacher and I've read Between Shades... to one of my classes. They loved it (and the fantastic book trailer) and a few of my students have since purchased Out of the Easy because of Between Shades. What drew you to back to WWII with the writing of Salt to the Sea?
Paolo Panlaqui
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hi Ruta! I'm a high school student from the Philippines. I loved your book Salt to the Sea and I can't wait to dive into your other books. I was wondering if you recommend this book to some of my friends because we studied WWII and when I read it, it was very accurate? What made you write a history novel instead of any other genres. Thank You! (PS: When will you come to the Philippines?)
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