"Author Ruta Sepetys discusses her background, inspiration, and writing process."
"Author Ruta Sepetys discusses the research, inspiration, and history behind her historical novel, "The Fountains of Silence." The story is set in 1957 Spain, during the dictatorship of Francisco Franco."
"Author Ruta Sepetys explains the research, inspiration, and history behind her historical novel, "Salt to the Sea." The story chronicles the refugee trek of 1945 and the sinking of the MV Wilhelm Gustloff, the most devastating maritime disaster in history."
Ruta is an inspiration to writers of all ages. Her research style to gather information for her writing is dedicated, engaging and fascinating. Ruta uses all of her senses when researching, which in return serves us amazing, sentient stories. Stories that share someone else's truth.
Ruta Sepetys is a renowned author of historical fiction, celebrated internationally for her works published in numerous languages and countries. Her books, appreciated by both young readers and adults, have garnered widespread acclaim, earning her the #1 spot on the New York Times bestseller list. Notably, she has received the prestigious Carnegie Medal for her contributions to literature, particularly for amplifying the voices of marginalized historical figures.
Sepetys' literary achievements extend beyond accolades; her novels have received over forty awards and nominations and feature on more than thirty state reading lists. Furthermore, several of her works are currently in development for adaptation into film and television productions.
Born in Michigan to a Lithuanian refugee, Sepetys draws inspiration from her family's artistic background and her passion for literature and music. She is deeply committed to using storytelling as a means to facilitate global conversations and connections, a sentiment reflected in her invitations to speak at esteemed institutions such as NATO, the European Parliament, and the Library of Congress.
In recognition of her dedication to education and historical memory preservation, Sepetys has been honored with numerous accolades, including the Cross of the Knight of the Order by the President of Lithuania and a postage stamp featuring her likeness. Despite the challenges of having a difficult-to-pronounce name, she remains proud of her Baltic heritage.
Currently residing in Tennessee with her family, Ruta Sepetys continues to captivate audiences with her evocative storytelling and commitment to shedding light on overlooked chapters of history.
Ruta Sepetys discusses her new novel, SALT TO THE SEA, based on a true story from World War II.
A tribute to the people of Lithuania, Poland, and East Prussia, Ruta Sepetys unearths a shockingly little-known casualty of a gruesome war, and proves that humanity can prevail, even in the darkest of hours.
Between Shades of Gray
Set in 1941, Between Shades of Gray is an extraordinary and haunting story based on first-hand family accounts and memories from survivors.