A Goodreads user
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hi Ruta! I read a review copy of Salt to the Sea and it is now without a doubt one of my favourite books EVER. I am a history student at university, WWII being one of the areas which I find most interesting and devastating to study, and you captured that devastation, and the utter strength of humanity so well! Did you base your main characters on historical accounts that you've read or are they purely fictional? Ari x
Ruta Sepetys
Hello Ari!
I totally agree with you—WWII is such an interesting yet devastating period.
In "Salt to the Sea" I created main characters who represent the different cultural lenses of the war: Lithuania, Germany, Poland and East Prussia. I've discovered that everyone views history through their own cultural lens. Some of the characters' traits were taken from interviews and research and some are fictional. Thanks for asking!
I totally agree with you—WWII is such an interesting yet devastating period.
In "Salt to the Sea" I created main characters who represent the different cultural lenses of the war: Lithuania, Germany, Poland and East Prussia. I've discovered that everyone views history through their own cultural lens. Some of the characters' traits were taken from interviews and research and some are fictional. Thanks for asking!
More Answered Questions
Mandy Chilcote
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
As a middle school English teacher, Between Shades of Gray is one of my top recommendations for students who think they know WWII books. When I saw Salt to the Sea in the library, I snatched it immediately and am finding it hard to put down. I was surprised, though, to see another World War II book from you. Did the research for one lead to the idea for the other?
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!
Lex
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Hi Ruta! My name is Alexa and your book has become such a major part in my life! It has sparked my interest in historical fiction and I even got both my parents to read it! My question is, where did you find your beginning inspiration for hidden history? Did you enjoy history back in school or was it mainly just your father's past that gained your interest? Thank you for your amazing novel!
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