The Vanishing Half

OK, I know I'm late to the party with this one but in my defense, it was sold out for a while (except for on Amazon but I'm trying to buy from there less) and I just recently (2 months ago ) got my hands on a copy. I finished this last week and can't wait to give my thoughts!

To be completely honest I liked this book a lot and I feel like none of my takes are going to be particularly hot, but if you're considering trying this book out, read on!

Things I liked: The writing (gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous!), the different POVs, theme of identity and its intersection with race, class, and gender. Bennett is truly an incredible storyteller; every scene felt so intentional and the way in which these characters' stories intertwine is nothing short of masterful! I thought each story arc was unique and well-told, especially Stella, Desiree, and Jude (so I guess maybe all the main characters?). I feel like Bennett refreshed the often-used theme of “identity” in the Vanishing Half— She expertly reveals just how flimsy our definition of race is; so flimsy, in fact, that people who are white-passing can switch their race on a whim! I love how she brought gender and sexuality into the story as well, and the struggles that many people face with these identities. She highlights the idea of “passing” (in both gender and race) in a way that I felt was super enlightening!

Things I didn't like: the first bit of the story was admittedly slow (something I've heard from many people) and I feel like it took a bit for us to get into the meat of the story. The side characters also felt a BIT one dimensional to me. Like, Desiree and Stella clearly had very well thought out emotions and motivations, but some of the other side characters felt... meh

Overall: read this book!!!! Trust me that the beginning may seem slow, but it gets juicy!!!!!!