Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin on The Bletchley Riddle and historical novels for early teens

The Bletchley Riddle by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin is a thrilling historical mystery for readers aged 12+, which we're delighted to have been able to share with our Macaw subscribers this month. We were gripped by this wartime mystery, which is packed with drama and intrigue, humour and empathy, secrets and adventure. We were rooting for Jakob and Lizzie from page one! Here co-authors Ruta and Steve tell us about being history nerds, all the research they did for the book, and which other historical books for early teens they recommend you read next. 

What inspired you to write The Bletchley Riddle?

Well, we’re history and investigative research nerds – and proud of it! Over the years, we’ve found ourselves at book events together and at one event a librarian asked us if there were other writers we might like to collaborate with one day. We looked at each other and the idea was sparked. In discussing topics, we were drawn to  the incredibly enchanting atmosphere of Bletchley Park, the underrepresented aspect related to certain codebreaking contributors, and the compelling drama of The Official Secrets Act. Thousands of people swore an oath of secrecy and never breathed a word about their work. Not even to their spouses and families! Could this happen today?

What research did you do and did you learn anything that surprised you?

We read stacks of books on the history of codes and codebreaking, and lots more specifically on Enigma and Bletchley Park. We visited London together and toured around, selecting locations for key scenes. We also spent time out at Bletchley Park. Seeing the Bletchley mansion in person was incredible! We explored not only inside the gates, but also historical neighbouring sites and cemeteries. We worked with the official research historian for Bletchley Park and we also partnered with the archival team at the Imperial War Museum who gave us an unforgettable private tour of Churchill’s War Rooms. Something that surprised us – the famous codebreaker Alan Turing cashed in his life savings for silver ingots and buried them somewhere near Bletchley Park. He created an enciphered map to the location. But after the war he couldn’t find the silver. We’re hoping readers might find it!

How many of the characters and their experiences are based on real people or events?

The main characters of Jakob and Lizzie are fictional, but the setting of Bletchley Park that they’re orbiting within is of course, real. We’ve also included real historical figures such as Alan Turing, Dilly Knox, John Herivel, Gordon Welchman and others.

Can you tell us anything about what happens next for Lizzie and Jakob?

Our story takes place within a very tight timeline during 1940. As we know, the war extended through 1945 and during that time Bletchley Park grew considerably in both size and workforce. So there are a multitude of possible adventures and mysteries for Jakob and Lizzie!

In what ways do you think Lizzie’s story will resonate with young readers today?

In many ways, it’s a story of friendship and what can be accomplished when we decide to work together toward a common goal. Imagine the fun of being selected and whisked away to a top-secret Government Code and Cipher School where you make new friends and work with others on projects that are saving lives and shortening the course of the war.

Why did you choose to write books for this age group?

We chose this age group because these are the types of stories we loved to read at that age. And stories we enjoy when we’re young remain in our head and hearts forever. We also want to pass underrepresented history to young readers who will carry it forward into the future – and find their own historical mysteries to investigate.

Do you have a favourite place to write?

Steve: I’m happiest in my office. It’s just a small room, really, but the walls are covered with notes and the floor’s stacked with books.

Ruta: I love to write outside, anywhere in nature. Being in a natural environment is hugely inspiring for me.

Which other historical books for this age group would you recommend our subscribers read next?

We loved Max in the House of Spies by Adam Gidwitz. Alan Gratz and Jennifer A. Nielsen also write historical novels that are real page-turners.

Copies of our The Bletchley Riddle pack, including a copy of the book and loads of fun activities to go with it, are now available for individual purchase. Grab a copy while stocks last!

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