45 pages • 1 hour read
Brit BennettA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett follows identical twins Desiree and Stella Vignes, who leave their small Louisiana village at 16. Desiree returns years later with her daughter after fleeing an abusive marriage, while Stella passes for White, marries a businessman, and lives in California. The narrative explores their diverging lives and themes of identity, belonging, and societal norms.
Brit Bennett's The Vanishing Half is praised for its compelling storytelling, well-drawn characters, and insightful exploration of race and identity. Critics admire Bennett's ability to weave complex themes of family, secrecy, and self-discovery throughout the narrative. Some feel the pacing lags at times, but overall, it's considered a powerful and thought-provoking novel.
A reader who enjoys complex family sagas, explores themes of identity and race, and appreciates character-driven narratives will find The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett compelling. Fans of Toni Morrison's Beloved and Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere will likely enjoy this poignant, thought-provoking novel.
Historical Fiction
Modern Classic Fiction
Emotions/Behavior: Shame & Pride
Race / Racism
History: World