You may recognize Ruta Sepetys' name, or maybe her first Young Adult book, Between Shades of Gray, which was an international best seller.
Sepetys is known for her beautifully written, heartbreaking, historical fiction. Between Shades of Gray is the story of a young Siberian girl who's family is torn apart by a Soviet invasion. Along with her mother and younger brother, she is sent to a Siberian working camp while her father is sent off to a prison camp.
If you are one of the readers who fell in love with Shades of Gray, you'll be excited to kow that Sepetys' new book, Salt to the Sea will be coming out February 2nd.
Like Shades of Gray, Salt to the Sea tackles yet another tragic, mostly over looked event: the sinking of the "Wilhelm Gustloff" after WWII. If you're anything like me, you'll have to Google "Wilhelm Gustloff". It's one of the "worst maritime disasters in history" yet relatively unknown to most people. But, after reading about the horrible accident, I just want to pick up Salt to the Sea event more!
Here's the description of the book:
"In 1945, World War II is drawing to a close in East Prussia, and thousands of refugees are on a desperate trek toward freedom, almost all of them with something to hide. Among them are Joana, Emilia, and Florian, whose paths converge en route to the ship that promises salvation, the "Wilhelm Gustloff." Forced by circumstance to unite, the three find their strength, courage, and trust in each other tested with each step closer toward safety.
Just when it seems freedom is within their grasp, tragedy strikes. Not country, nor culture, nor status matter as all ten thousand people aboard must fight for the same thing: survival." Told in alternatilng perspectives, this book is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Pick it up in stores next week.