Savannah [eaton_nightlock]

Savannah [eaton_nightlock] asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi Ruta! I'm an 8th grade student, and I read your book 'Between Shades of Gray' two years ago, and it has been one of my favorite books since! I was just wondering, what made you want to start writing about topics like those in BSG? Thank you so much, I'm a huge fan of you and your books, hopefully we can meet some day and discuss more! I can't wait to read Salt to the Sea!

Ruta Sepetys Hi Savannah,

Thanks for your question! I'm so happy that you enjoyed "Between Shades of Gray!"

In terms of what inspires me to write about these topics - I am drawn to hidden history and stories of strength through struggle, so I look for topics that contain those elements. Writing historical fiction is like being a detective. I love discovering secrets and lost heroes. Sometimes history can be perceived as boring. But through characters and story, historical statistics become human and suddenly we care for people we've never met, we can find their country on a map, and then—the history matters. Through historical fiction we can give voice those who will never have a chance to tell their story. That inspires me!

More Answered Questions

A Goodreads user

A Goodreads user asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi Ruta! I love your writing! Anyways, I wanted to ask, having recently finished "Salt to the Sea," did you make Joana one of your main characters because many people wondered about her in "Between Shades of Gray"? Or, did some other fact make that decision for you? I really loved getting answers to questions I had while reading "Between Shades of Gray," but why did YOU choose to include Joana? Thanks!

Cornelia

Cornelia asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi Ruta, Between Shades of Grey is one of my favorite books, it really touched a core inside me, as Romanians, we have too a complicated history with Russia and communism. When you write a book do you know from the beginning where it will lead (more precisely do you have a plan from the start with the characters or you go where the story leads?) Do you ever plan on coming to Romania?

Sofiarodal

Sofiarodal asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hi! I'm Sofia, i live in Colombia and i want you to come,please!!! I'm sure you would like my country is so pretty and have many natural places. To finish i want to ask what thing make you decide to told us the hidden story of the Second world war and Lithuania In your book Between shades of grey?

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