Over the past few years, I have tried to keep up with the top books of the year. It usually worked out. For 2020 though, I decided to read what I wanted, when I wanted, with no restrictions. That led to rereading a few books I’ve read in the past, discovering a new author and reading most of her books, and managing to read at least one of the best books of 2020. Lucky for me, my sister subscribes to Book of the Month and leant me this next read.

Book Read: The Vanishing Half
Author: Brit Bennett
2020 Book Count: 55

At the age of sixteen, the Vignes twin sisters, Desiree and Stella, run away, leaving behind a small black community. It’s a community very few leave, and, in Mallard, the whiter you are, the better off you are. When in New Orleans, the sisters begin to drift apart. After Stella vanishes, their decision to run away puts them each down a separate path that will eventually intertwine again.

Desiree eventually returns to her hometown, years later, with her daughter. There, she returns to her roots, looking after her family. But her return is not easy on her daughter, Jude.

Stella secretly passes for white, and her white family knows nothing about her past. She lives a privileged life and has kept her secret for years. Then one night, an encounter will reveal secrets from her past.

A story that spans decades, The Vanishing Half tells the story of Desiree and Stella, their children and families, and the impact of their choices.

There is a reason The Vanishing Half is on everyone’s top books lists, including President Obama’s. It’s that good. This novel was different from any other I have read in the best way possible. Once I sat down to read it, I could not put it down.

When you first read the synopsis of this novel, it seems as if it will strictly be a story of twin sisters. It is so much more than that, and I’m glad it was. Spanning over several decades, Bennett tells the stories of not only the Vignes twins, but also their children and families. It crosses generations and shows the lasting impact of a person’s decisions. This is not only a story about Desiree and Stella, but it is a story about Jude, Kennedy, Early and Reese, and many more.

The Vanishing Half is a page turner to say the least. It’s a story about choice, circumstance, race, identity and secrets. Bennett has a winner with this one.

Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy. You will be glad you did.

Next Read: Beach Read by Emily Henry, which is the last planned post for 2020.

Stay tuned for the 2020 Recap that will follow!