Eyecatcher: Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

Between Shades of Gray

by Ruta Sepetys

Philomel (Penguin)

http://www.rutasepetys.com

http://www.betweenshadesofgray.com

ISBN: 9780399254123

Release Date: March 22, 2011

from the official book site: 

In 1941, fifteen-year-old Lina is preparing for art school, first dates, and all that summer has to offer. But one night, the Soviet secret police barge violently into her home, deporting her along with her mother and younger brother. They are being sent to Siberia. Lina's father has been separated from the family and sentenced to death in a prison camp. All is lost. 

Lina fights for her life, fearless, vowing that if she survives she will honor her family, and the thousands like hers, by documenting their experience in her art and writing. She risks everything to use her art as messages, hoping they will make their way to her father's prison camp to let him know they are still alive. 

It is a long and harrowing journey, and it is only their incredible strength, love, and hope that pull Lina and her family through each day. But will love be enough to keep them alive? 

why it caught my eye: 

I read about Between Shades of Gray in Publisher's Weekly, while on lunch break at work. The minute I finished the article I ran out to the sales floor and pre-ordered my copy. I don't normally read books of such a serious nature, but I know this is one I need to read. Part of the reason for such interest on my part is that I'm of Lithuanian descent and it's not often that I find books about Lithuanians. Not only that, but Ruta Sepetys is writing about a part of Lithuanian (and Latvian and Estonian) history that many people know nothing about. I think it's great that this story is being told. I can't wait to get my copy and start reading it. I recommend you check it out today, or rather,  a week from today when it releases. :)