Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys

Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys

     One of the books that I have read this year is called Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys.  This book is an excellent historical fiction to read, and shows that it is a historical fiction by adding in fictional characters to experience events that have really happened.  The book switches between the points of view of the characters Joana, Florian, Alfred, and Emilia.  Each of these characters are from a different homeland, and each are hunted and haunted by their own past.  Among the four, Joana, Florian, and Emilia join the thousands of refugees that head toward the coast as the Soviets advance toward Germany and World War II rages on.  Though many refugees don't make it, all four main characters come together at the German coast and manage to get their way onto the Wilhelm Gustloff.  Each of them have their own challenges to overcome, but all have no idea about what is to come.

     I would highly recommend this book because the book is captivating with every chapter and always keeps you on your toes.  The novel has characters that are anything but shallow.  Each one has their own backstory that adds to the plot of the book.  Not only have the characters developed before the story actually started, but they develop a lot over the course of the book too.  Other than the book being a great read, this book is educational, and gives light to some of the events that happen in Europe during World War II.  Overall, this award winning book will definitely be worth your time during the our summer break. 

- Anna C.