Book Review: Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

“Have you ever wondered what a human life is worth? That morning, my brother’s was worth a pocket watch.”

Ruta Sepetys, Between Shades of Gray

Review:

I don’t think I will ever find a book Ruta Sepetys has written that I don’t adore. Her books have set my expectations for all historical fiction astronomically high that I’m at the point where I’m okay if she’s the only historical fiction author I ever read again. 

Lina and her family are forcibly removed from their home in Lithuania by the Soviets in the midst of World War II. They are deported to Siberia along with several other families. Lina holds out hope that her father will come to rescue them and even attempts to get coded messages to him. With her drawing talents, she also creates secret documentation of the cruelties she and her fellow deportees are forced to endure. 

I think I say this every time I read one of Ruta Sepetys’ books, but I absolutely love that the story follows a part of World War II history that is not as well known as others. I consider myself fairly well-studied in this time period and I knew nothing of the atrocities discussed in the book. On top of that, the characters are so marvelously fleshed out, flaws and strengths and all. They felt as authentic as their situations, which can be difficult to find, especially in this genre. 

It’s safe to say I am head over heels in love with these plots and the writing. I’m curious to see the movie (retitled Ashes in the Snow) but I know it will shatter my heart. I can bear a lot more of this kind of content in books than I can on screen. Honestly though, it might be worth it if it remains true to the book.

Likes & Dislikes:

What I liked:

• The writing and the pace. I’m glad there weren’t a bunch of different POVs to follow.
• The characterization. Everyone was well fleshed out including the side characters.
• Despite the ongoing tragedies, there’s an air of hope coursing throughout the book.
• Informative.

What I didn’t like:

• There were some gaps due to time jumps that made the book feel choppy in places.

Afterthoughts:

This might be my favorite Ruta Sepetys book now, although, the competition is tough. I’m so sad that I only have one more historical fiction book of hers to read. I hope there will be another one in the future!

Where to buy the book: