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The Vanishing Half

352 pages, 2020

fiction

fiction

1382 books
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Description

The lives of identical twins Vivian and Daphne Vignes are quite different. They were raised in the same small southern black community, but at sixteen they ran away from home and never returned. Now, many years later, one sister lives in the same town with her black daughter; the other is married to a white man who knows nothing of her past. Their fates remain intertwined despite distance and lies. What will happen to the next generation when their own daughter's storylines intersect? 

Weaving together multiple strands and generations of this family, from the Deep South to California, from the 1950s to the 1990s, Brit Bennett produces a story that is at once a riveting family drama and an insightful exploration of American history.

Exploring Identity and Self-Perception

The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett is a deep exploration of identity and self-perception. It's a story about twin sisters who choose to live in two different racial identities. This book will make you question how you perceive yourself and others, and how those perceptions shape your world.

Understanding the Impact of Racism

Bennett's book gives a stark portrayal of the impact of racism on individuals and communities. It's a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and the damaging effects of prejudice and discrimination. Reading this book will give you a deeper understanding of these issues.

The Power of Secrets and Lies

In The Vanishing Half, secrets and lies play a significant role. The characters' lives are shaped by the secrets they keep and the lies they tell. This book will make you think about the power of secrets and the consequences of living a lie.

Exploring the Complexity of Family Relationships

Bennett's book delves into the complexity of family relationships. It shows how family ties can both bind and divide us, and how our family's expectations can shape our choices. You'll find yourself reflecting on your own family dynamics after reading this book.

The Influence of the Past on the Present

The Vanishing Half shows how the past can influence the present. The characters are haunted by their pasts and their decisions are shaped by their history. This book will make you think about how your past influences your present and future.

Quotes 4

The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett is a captivating novel that explores the lasting influence of the past on the present.

Oprah WinfreyOprah Winfrey - TV host, philanthropist

The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett is a thought-provoking read that challenges the notion of identity and the impact of our past on our future.

Barack ObamaBarack Obama - 44th U.S. President

Brit Bennett's The Vanishing Half is a beautifully written exploration of identity and family.

Shonda RhimesShonda Rhimes - TV producer, writer

The Vanishing Half is a compelling and insightful novel that delves into the complexities of identity and familial bonds.

Roxane GayRoxane Gay - Writer, professor
Oprah WinfreyBarack ObamaShonda RhimesRoxane Gay

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The Vanishing Half found in libraries

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372 books

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