A outra metade

The problem when reading a book with a lot of hype are the expectations created around it. I'm not saying this one doesn't deserve it, but I've felt a bit disappointed by it.
This book follows the story of two identical light-skinned colored twin sisters who decide two leave their hometown at 16, for different reasons.
Despite being identical, Desiree and Stella could not be more different and, after a difficult beginning living by themselves, Stella disappears without trace, leaving no notes or signals behind. Some years later we see Desiree returning to her hometown with a child as black as could be and learn that Stella is passing for white in a destination unknown.
As the years pass, the story starts following Stella and Desiree daughters, allowing us to read more perspectives on the main issues included in the book.

What I liked about the book:
- The story was beautifully written, and I particularly enjoyed Desiree and Stella POV.
- I loved how racism was captured in the book, both from the white, light skinned and black perspectives, showing that there could be (and are) very different oppressors in society.
- I liked how the book showed that we may try to run away or avoid our past, living as someone entirely different, but we will always carry something from it because our life experiences mould us.

What I think it could have been done better:
- This book tried to tackle too many issues at once, ending not developing any of them with the depth they deserved.
Some if the issues depicted on the book:
o Racism
o Domestic violence
o Child abandonment
o New identities
o Queer issues
o Mental health
o Alzheimer
- I enjoy the inclusion of diverse character on books, but I like them to feel realistic. In my opinion, Reese character was poorly developed and felt unrealistic. Analysing Reese perspective, it would appear to be easy to be a Trans at the time. I don't think it is easy to be Trans nowadays, much less in the 80's. Everyone immediately saw Reese as a cis man, much too beautiful to be dating Jude, but that is mainly it. I also have difficulties believing it would be easier at the time to find a group as inclusive as Jude's, including black people, gays, trans, drags, all from different origins, with no particular issues or problems on their daily lives.
- Underwhelming end

I liked the book and would recommend it to historical fiction readers, particularly the ones who prefer a lighter focus on the characters development.

3.5 stars rounded up