Grey is the Color of Hope is a book which made a tremendous impression on me when I read it , years ago now . I have read and re-read it many times since . The story related is heart wrenching , but the bravery and cheerful sassiness of the author /poet is awe-inspiring to say the least . It shows clearly how the human spirit can triumph over the direst circumstances and brutal treatment . Ms. Ratushinskaya has been a personal heroine of mine for these years since and I urge everyone to read and be inspired by her bravery and her talent .