Danielle Shull asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hello, Ruta. First, I want to tell you that I'm a middle school teacher and have had so many students absolutely fall in love with your books. Thank you so much for that! On behalf of a student, my question is a two-part question regarding "Between Shades of Gray." (She is so excited I'm asking this!) What took you to writing this book, and what do you imagine happened to the kids after the end of the book?

Ruta Sepetys Hello Ms. Shull!

Thank you so much for using my books for your class and please thank your students for reading them!

Okay, now on to answering the questions from your student:

- Much of the world is not aware that Stalin deported so many people to Siberia. I wanted to write "Between Shades of Gray" to create an awareness of the history and also give voice to the people who never had a chance to tell their story.
- After the end of the story I imagine that Lina and Andrius reunite, get married, and live a romantic and happy life. Jonas and Janina become best friends. If you want to learn what happens to Lina's cousin, Joana, you must read "Salt to the Sea" as Joana is a main character in my new book! The fate of Lina's father is also revealed in "Salt to the Sea."

Thanks so much for asking!

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