The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
"The Vanishing Half" by Brit Bennett is a compelling novel that tells the story of identical twin sisters, Desiree and Stella Vignes, who run away from their small town in Louisiana at the age of sixteen. The novel explores themes of race, identity, and family as the sisters navigate their lives on separate paths—one living as a black woman and the other passing as white.
Desiree returns to their hometown with her dark-skinned daughter, Jude, while Stella lives a life of secrets and privilege in a white community. The novel delves into the complex relationships between the sisters, their daughters, and the choices they make that shape their identities and futures.
As the story unfolds over several decades, "The Vanishing Half" explores the impact of passing, the enduring bond between sisters, and the search for belonging and acceptance. Brit Bennett weaves a rich tapestry of characters and emotions in this thought-provoking and poignant novel that challenges perceptions of race and identity in American society.
I have to confess, I am actually a book listener than a reader. While others debate over print or tablet, I plug in my headphones and listen while I garden or drive or do housework. For those of you who might have considered audiobooks but aren’t sure, this is an excellent book. Set in the south, Ms. Bennett’s words come alive with Shayna Small’s reading. She is fabulous!
I couldn’t stop listening to this book, the writing was poetic and the insights filled my heart and mind long after the book was over. To see our country through a black lense of oppresion is always heartbreaking for me and this story is no exception. As woman, I think Ms. Bennett also included my story as well. How many women have disguised themselves to fit in, to find a husband, to get promoted, to fulfill a dream only to lose their confidence behind the lies? How many Stellas live amongst us- afraid to reveal their true selves for fear of rejection? And how many Desirees must endure the criticism for the struggles of living their true selves? I’m afraid our society often rewards and supports the image of success rather than the journey. And that journey a’int always pretty!
Oh and that heat! Is there anything more repressive than the deep southern heat in summer? You better be sitting in an air-conditioned room while your reading this book.