Salt to the Sea (2016) by Ruta Sepetys
In 1945, as World War II nears its end in East Prussia, thousands of refugees are desperately trying to escape to freedom, each one hiding their secrets. Among them are Joana, Emilia, and Florian, whose paths cross as they head towards the ship Wilhelm Gustloff, which promises salvation. Forced together by their circumstances, these three find their strength, courage, and trust in each other tested with each step they take towards safety. Just as freedom seems within reach, a tragedy occurs. In the chaos, nationality, culture, and social status are irrelevant; all ten thousand people aboard must fight for survival.
Ruta Sepetys’ award-winning “Salt to the Sea” is deeply rooted in historical events. The novel brings to life the heart-wrenching story of the Wilhelm Gustloff, a ship carrying over 10,000 refugees that was sunk by Soviet submarines on January 30, 1945. The sinking led to the loss of over 9,000 lives, making it the deadliest maritime disaster in history, far surpassing the losses of the Titanic and the Lusitania. Sepetys conducted extensive interviews with survivors and their descendants to portray this lesser-known wartime tragedy accurately.
Four Narrators, One Common Thread
“Salt to the Sea” is narrated by four characters: Joana, Emilia, Florian, and Alfred. The story alternates between their perspectives every few pages, creating a gripping and fast-paced narrative.
– Joana is a young Lithuanian nurse, separated from her family.
– Emilia is a fifteen-year-old Polish girl who knows her family is dead.
– Florian is a young Prussian man and art restorer on a secret mission.
– Alfred is a young German soldier stationed far from home, mentally writing letters to his love.
Joana, Emilia, and Florian travel the same refugee route, hiding from both Soviet and German soldiers. The Soviets are a threat due to their merciless violence, while the Germans pose a danger as none of the refugees have official permission to flee. Their goal is to reach a port where ships are waiting to evacuate refugees to safety.
As they journey, these three, along with other lost souls—a wandering boy, a shoe poet, a blind girl, and a giantess—form close bonds. In the intensity of their shared struggle, they come to trust and deeply care for one another. A gentle romance also develops between Joana and Florian, adding a touch of hope to their harrowing experience.
Heart-Wrenching and Heart-Warming Historical Fiction
“Salt to the Sea” is a beautifully bittersweet book, making it a quick read as you become engrossed in the characters’ fates. The novel places you in the shoes of ordinary people trying to find safety during desperate times. It showcases both the cruelty of war, especially its impact on the young, and the compassion, bravery, and love that emerge in dire circumstances.
This book conveys a powerful message about humanity and our potential for both great and terrible deeds, urging readers to think about the choices they make. Despite the sobering and violent backdrop, the story is filled with beauty and tenderness, making it a compelling read.
Content Note: “Salt to the Sea” deals with intense and violent themes consistent with its wartime setting, but it avoids explicit descriptions of violence or profanity.
Adaptation Recommendation: Universal Pictures has optioned the book, so a film adaptation may be on the horizon.
