Reviewed by: Noelle
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
13+
Brief Insights: Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys is a gripping, multi-perspective World War II novel that emotionally connects readers to four unique characters caught in a harrowing escape across war-torn Germany. With its short chapters, vivid voices, and raw emotion, the book offers a powerful and original view of civilian experiences during the war.
A book not only carries a story, but it also embodies the unique voice of its author. With so many writing styles out there, each reader tends to favor certain ones. Of all the incredible voices I’ve encountered, Ruta Sepetys really stood out to me. Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys is an incredibly engaging book; I couldn’t put it down, reading it non stop until I reached the end. The short, snappy chapters, action-packed plot, and the bold choice of alternating between four perspectives made it impossible to put down.
Joana, a Lithuanian haunted by her past; Emilia, a terrified Polish teenager; Florian, a Prussian man burdened by secrets; and Albert, a German sailor working aboard the grand Wilhelm Gustloff. These four are connected by one life-changing event: evacuating war torn Germany on the Wilhelm Gustloff. Everything—including their lives—is at stake.
At first, it’s difficult to grasp who is who, but fortunately, within the first ten to fifteen chapters, three out of the four characters come together in a way that clears up any confusion. In my opinion, this was one of the rare instances where an author did this extremely well, making it easy for the reader to invest in the characters without feeling lost among the complex storyline. The four perspectives not only add to the novel’s originality, but they also bring distinct cultural backgrounds, views, and vibrant personalities to the story. This made me feel even more connected to the characters compared to a typical book with just one main perspective. I became deeply invested in each of their individual stories.
As Joana, Emilia and Florian journey across Germany they begin to rely on each other and their relationship flourishes into something beautiful. I really enjoyed seeing the characters from multiple perspectives through their interactions and reflecting thoughts. It illuminated how the world saw them versus how they saw themselves. I have read several books set in World War 2 and this is one of the only ones that captures what it was like to be in Germany at the end of the war and the devastating attacks ordinary civilians suffered from both the Americans and Russian. Seeing World War two from a fresh perspective really caused me to think outside of the box and question the world around me.
I gave this book 5/5 stars for its original captivating style, its multi perspective chapters and its ability to emotionally connect and influence me. I strongly encourage anyone over the age of 13 to read this as long as you are comfortable with mentions/outcomes of rape, death and gory details.
Leave a comment