I realized last week when I prepared a post about another author event that I have never posted any information about the Ruta Sepetys book signing that I went to back in February. I had such a fabulous time at the event that I really do want to share it with others. Better late than never I suppose.
This book signing was one of the most interesting ones that I have been to. I can honestly say that I learned at lot at the event and had a great time doing it. Ms. Sepetys was an excellent speaker and was eager to share her process with the audience. Salt to the Sea is a historical fiction novel that focuses on an event that isn’t well known. She had a slideshow that showed pieces of her research which were absolutely fascinating. I was mesmerized.
This book signing not only made me want to read the book (which I am ashamed to say I still haven’t had time for), but to also learn about the event and this time in history. As she discussed her research, it was very obvious at how detailed she was in putting this event together. She also shared a bit of her background and told how her father had been a refugee. This really puts a personal perspective on her work.
She spent some time showing all of the different covers of her books across the world. I found it really interesting when she shared that readers tell her that her books mean very different things in different parts of the world. It is because the story needs the reader to come alive. As she said – books mean what you think they mean because that is what they mean to you. This is one smart lady.
Did you know that one of her books are currently being made into a movie? Between Shade of Gray is currently in production as Ashes in the Snow. This movie sounds like it is going to be great.
She was so nice when she signed my book and really seemed to care about each of the readers that came to the event. Such a class act.
About the Book
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
Penguin Young Readers Group – Philomel Books
Publication Date: February 2, 2016
Winter, 1945. Four teenagers. Four secrets.
Each one born of a different homeland; each one hunted, and haunted, by tragedy, lies…and war.
As thousands of desperate refugees flock to the coast in the midst of a Soviet advance, four paths converge, vying for passage aboard the Wilhelm Gustloff, a ship that promises safety and freedom.
Yet not all promises can be kept.
Inspired by the single greatest tragedy in maritime history, bestselling and award-winning author Ruta Sepetys (Between Shades of Gray) lifts the veil on a shockingly little-known casualty of World War II. An illuminating and life-affirming tale of heart and hope.
Yes, loved getting your recap even if it was from February. I didn't know about her books until this year. That's neat how she did the background of the story. I've seen great reviews for it.
I really loved this event. I learned a lot and was just so entertained by it all. I can't wait to read this book!
I do hope that you love the book Carole! I still think about it, after weeks of reading it. I'm planning to read all of her books before the year is out.
She doesn't have a whole lot of books out yet and I hope to read them all soon as well. I do remember how you enjoyed Salt to the Sea.
I've only recently even heard about this book (I think you told me about it at the VA + SJ signing and I had no idea what it was). I didn't think SttS was for me, but when Sabaa Tahir mentioned it, I knew I should probably check it out. Hopefully I can get my hands on a copy soon. 🙂
It really sounds like it would be a powerful story. So many people at the book signing were raving about her books. I hope you enjoy it when you get a chance to read it.
How fun and interesting! I'm so looking forward to reading SttS.
I can't believe I haven't got around to it yet. I need to make some time soon for sure!
You go to to some of the funnest signings… Lucky!!
I try to go to as many as I can get to fit into my schedule. They are so much fun.
I haven't yet read anything by this author, but I hope to. I am glad you got to attend this meeting with the author. It sounds wonderful!
I just love going to author events. They are so entertaining. This one was one of the best in recent memory.
I'd LOVE to meet Ruta Sepetys!! She's one of my fave authors! I didn't know they changed the title of Between Shades of Gray's adaptation.. must be stop people from mistaking it for Fifty Shades of WhatNot (my friends who've never heard of Between Shades of Gray always mistook it for the other whenever I talk about it). Anyway, you MUST read Salt to the Sea already!!
czai @ the Blacksheep Project
I kept thinking about that other shades book myself. It makes sense to change the name for the movie I guess. I hope to get to it very soon, Czai!
How lucky you are! And I didn't know about her book being turned into a movie. I like the revised title. 🙂