Lynndell

Lynndell asked Ruta Sepetys:

Dear Ruta, I love how you always include your research, sources and any notes that you have collected at the end of each book, while working on that specific book. What personal connection do you have, if any, that prompted you to write Salt to the Sea?

Ruta Sepetys Hi Lynndell!

Thanks for your question. I'm so glad you enjoy the research notes at the end of my books. In terms of a personal connection to "Salt to the Sea," my father's cousin had passage on the ship. The day of the voyage, she wasn't able to board and the ship sailed without her. She is the one who told me about the sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff and urged me to write about it.

Thanks again!

More Answered Questions

A Goodreads user

A Goodreads user asked Ruta Sepetys:

When my granddaughter was in fourth grade and reading "Between Shades of Gray," a classmate got a surprised look on his face and indicated that she should NOT be reading that book! He had confused the title with "Fifty Shades of Gray." My granddaughter quickly pointed out the difference to him. I am a former German teacher. Will you continue to write about German history?

Ari

Ari asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi Ruta I have read "Between the Shades of Gray " and LOVED my question is what inspired you for between the shades of gray ? KEEP WRITING Ari

Olivia

Olivia asked Ruta Sepetys:

I read "Salt to the Sea" as part of tumblr's Reblog Book Club. As you might have seen, there was a lot of discussion about the character of Alfred. What are your personal thoughts/feelings about him? I for one found him interesting--and deeply unsettling--and could clearly see why someone like him would be drawn to the Nazi party.

All answers from Ruta Sepetys…

24,874 followers

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