The Vanishing Half

by Brit Bennett
The Vanishing Half cover
Good Books rating 4.56
Literary Fiction
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 4003
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780593416969
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2021-01-12
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Vignes twins, once inseparable, grow up to lead vastly different lives, one embracing her African American heritage and the other passing as white. This novel delves into the complexities of race, identity, and the choices that shape our lives. /n/nSet in the 1950s and 1960s, 'The Vanishing Half' is a richly layered story that spans generations and explores the American history of passing, revealing the profound impact of racial identity on family and society.

Reviews
Amazon · Sarah J. · 2023-07-10
compelling 4.75

A compelling narrative that skillfully tackles themes of race and identity, with a richly detailed setting and memorable characters. It's a book that will stay with you.

This book is a powerful exploration of the complexities of race and identity. The author's writing is evocative and immersive, drawing you into the lives of the characters and the world they inhabit. The setting is richly detailed, and the characters are so well-developed that you can't help but feel connected to them. The themes are timely and relevant, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of race and identity. It's a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

Quick quotes

    A powerful exploration of the complexities of race and identity.

    The author's writing is evocative and immersive.

    The setting is richly detailed, and the characters are so well-developed.

Reddit - r/books · Bookworm88 · 2023-06-20
thought-provoking 4.50

A thought-provoking and beautifully written novel that explores the intricacies of family and identity. It's a book that will make you reflect on your own life.

This novel is a stunning exploration of family and identity. The author's writing is lyrical and evocative, drawing you into the lives of the characters and the world they inhabit. The themes are deeply personal and universal, making it a book that will resonate with readers on many levels. It's a book that will make you reflect on your own life and the choices that have shaped it. The characters are so well-crafted that you can't help but feel invested in their journeys. It's a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

Quick quotes

    A stunning exploration of family and identity.

    The author's writing is lyrical and evocative.

    The themes are deeply personal and universal.

Goodreads · Emily · 2023-06-15
engaging 4.50

The narrative is engaging and the characters are well-developed, making it a compelling read. The exploration of identity and family dynamics is thought-provoking.

They found the story to be captivating, with a strong sense of character development that kept them invested throughout. The themes of identity and family dynamics were particularly resonant, offering a lot to think about. The author's writing style is praised for its ability to draw the reader in and make complex issues accessible. They appreciate the way the story weaves together different perspectives and timelines, creating a rich and layered narrative. However, they note that some of the plot points might feel a bit predictable to some readers, but overall, it's a deeply satisfying and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    The characters are so well-developed that you can't help but feel invested in their journeys.

    The exploration of identity and family dynamics is both timely and universal.

    The author's writing style is engaging and makes complex issues accessible to all readers.

Goodreads · Nandi · 2023-06-15
moving 4.50

The book beautifully explores the complexities of identity and family, with characters that feel deeply real. It's a poignant and thought-provoking read that lingers long after the last page.

This novel is a masterclass in character development and storytelling. The author weaves a tale that spans decades and delves into the intricacies of race, identity, and the choices that define us. The characters are so well-crafted that you can't help but feel invested in their journeys. It's a book that will make you reflect on your own life and the decisions that have shaped it. The themes are timely and relevant, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the human experience.

Quick quotes

    The characters are so real, you feel like you know them personally.

    A poignant exploration of identity and the choices that define us.

    The story lingers long after the last page.

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