The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet

 


Trigger warnings: domestic abuse/violence, lynching, racism, colorism, sexual assault, transphobia


The Vanishing Half is a novel beginning with the story of two Black twin sisters born in Louisiana. When both sisters leave home one chooses to pass as white and the other does not. The book follows the twins: Desiree and Stella as well as various other characters including their respective daughters Jude and Kennedy.
I listened to The Vanishing Half as an audiobook over the course of a few days and I had such a hard time hitting pause when I needed to sleep or do anything that took my attention away from the story. There are so many layers and themes woven throughout the book and there is even a trans character that has a fairly big role and is portrayed expertly. 

I highly recommend The Vanishing Half for anyone, particularly those interested in race and its politics, family/sisterhood and honesty. It is clear why it is so well loved.









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