71. The Vanishing Half Brit Bennett Review Recommended by Mariah Carey

“The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett

Introduction

“The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett, a novel recommended by Mariah Carey, delves into the complex themes of identity, race, and family. This compelling story follows the lives of twin sisters who choose to live very different lives—one embracing her Black heritage, while the other passes as white. Through its rich narrative and multifaceted characters, the novel offers profound insights into the nature of identity and the impact of our choices.

The Vanishing Half recommended by Mariah Carey
The Vanishing Half recommended by Mariah Carey

The Vanishing Half Summary

“The Vanishing Half” is set in the mid-20th century and spans several decades, following the lives of Desiree and Stella Vignes, identical twin sisters from Mallard, Louisiana. Mallard is a unique town where the residents are light-skinned Black people who value lightness above all else. The twins run away from home at sixteen, seeking different futures. Desiree returns to Mallard years later with her dark-skinned daughter, Jude, while Stella chooses to pass as white, creating a new life for herself in California.

The Vanishing Half
The Vanishing Half

The novel explores the sisters’ divergent paths and the impact of their choices on their families and themselves. Desiree’s life is marked by her return to her roots and her struggle to protect her daughter from the town’s colorist attitudes. Stella, on the other hand, lives in constant fear of being discovered, as she navigates the privileges and isolation of her new identity.

The Vanishing Half Characters

The Vanishing Half Characters
The Vanishing Half Characters

Stella Vignes:

Description: Stella is one of the twin sisters. She is light-skinned and, over time, decides to pass as white, leading her to create a new identity completely detached from her roots. She is depicted with a refined, almost reserved demeanor, often wearing sophisticated, conservative clothing that reflects her new life in a wealthy, predominantly white neighborhood.

Desiree Vignes:

Description: Desiree is Stella’s twin sister who, unlike Stella, returns to their hometown after escaping an abusive relationship. Desiree embraces her identity as a black woman. She is often depicted in simpler, more practical clothing, with a grounded and resilient expression, symbolizing her return to her roots and her strength in facing her past.

Jude Winston:

Description: Jude is Desiree’s daughter. She has dark skin, contrasting sharply with the light-skinned people around her, including her mother. Jude is determined and strong-willed, often seen with a serious, contemplative expression. Her clothing is casual, representing her journey of self-discovery and her struggles with identity.

Kennedy Sanders:

Description: Kennedy is Stella’s daughter, raised as a white girl completely unaware of her mother’s true heritage. She is often depicted as glamorous and somewhat entitled, with an air of privilege that comes from her upbringing. Kennedy’s fashion is trendy and stylish, reflecting her affluent, LA-based lifestyle.

Early Jones:

Description: Early is a bounty hunter and Desiree’s love interest. He has a rugged appearance, often depicted in casual, functional clothing. His expression is thoughtful, with a hint of world-weariness, reflecting his life on the move and his complex relationship with Desiree.

The Vanishing Half Themes

Race and Identity: The novel examines how racial identity is constructed and the lengths to which individuals go to redefine themselves. Stella’s decision to pass as white highlights the privileges and perils of reinvention.

Family and Belonging: The bond between the twins, despite their separation, underscores the enduring nature of family ties. The novel also explores the impact of family secrets and the longing for connection.

Loss and Memory: Both Desiree and Stella grapple with the loss of their father and each other. The novel delves into how these losses shape their lives and decisions.

Class and Privilege: Stella’s transition into white society brings her material comfort but also emotional isolation. The novel critiques the societal structures that grant privilege based on race.

Highlights of “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett

Highlights of “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett
Highlights of “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett

1. The Divergent Paths of the Twins The novel begins with the twins, Desiree and Stella Vignes, running away from their small town of Mallard, Louisiana. Their paths diverge dramatically: Desiree returns to Mallard with her dark-skinned daughter, while Stella passes as white and builds a new life in California.

2. Desiree’s Return to Mallard Desiree’s return to Mallard with her daughter, Jude, highlights the town’s deep-seated colorism. Desiree’s struggle to protect Jude from prejudice and her reconnection with her past lover, Early Jones, are central to her storyline.

3. Stella’s Life of Secrecy Stella’s life as a white woman is marked by constant fear of being discovered. Her friendship with her Black neighbor, Loretta, and the tension it creates in her white community, underscores the complexities of her chosen identity.

4. Jude’s Journey of Self-Discovery Jude’s experiences in Los Angeles, including her relationship with Reese, a trans man, and her encounter with her aunt Stella, are pivotal moments. Jude’s perseverance and search for identity are key themes.

5. The Reunion of the Twins The eventual reunion of Desiree and Stella, and the impact of their choices on their daughters, brings the story full circle. This reunion forces both sisters to confront their past and the identities they have constructed.

6. Themes of Identity and Belonging The novel explores themes of racial identity, family bonds, and the longing for belonging. It delves into how the characters navigate their identities and the societal structures that shape their lives.

7. The Impact of Choices “The Vanishing Half” emphasizes the profound impact of the choices we make. Stella’s decision to pass as white and Desiree’s return to Mallard illustrate the different paths one can take and the consequences of those choices.

These highlights capture the essence of “The Vanishing Half” and its exploration of identity, race, and family. The novel’s rich narrative and complex characters offer a deep and thought-provoking reading experience.

Why You Should Read This Book

“The Vanishing Half” is a beautifully written novel that offers a deep and nuanced exploration of identity and family. Brit Bennett’s storytelling is both engaging and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of race and the human experience. The novel’s rich characters and intricate plot will leave you reflecting on the nature of identity and the choices that define us.

Whether you’re drawn to its historical context, its emotional depth, or its social commentary, “The Vanishing Half” is a novel that resonates on many levels. It’s a powerful reminder of the ways in which our past shapes our present and the enduring bonds of family.

 

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