A review by booksbytheglass
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

challenging emotional sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

this is a book that I didn’t love - but I definitely think everyone in the world should read đź’ś the racial and political commentary scattered throughout the entire book was brilliant 

spanning over a few decades, this story tackles the story of two twins, each so different, and their lives throughout the years. the drastic difference between stella and desiree was astounding, especially during that time period in history, and frankly quite selfish at times 

I was a bit disjointed at the time period jumps in between the parts - especially since they didn’t usually wrap up 🤪 the slow burn didn’t pay off in the long run, and I found myself more irritated by the characters’ actions long term than understanding

while the quotes, especially those fighting racial and LGTBQ+ inequality, were *chef kiss* and had me tearing up at times, I just couldn’t get around the selfishness that both sisters (and their daughters) exhibited when it came to each other’s happiness… 

this one was the product of my first TBR card set that my lovely bestie ashley got me (because everyone knows my physical TBR shelf needs a lot of help) - new to me author! 

rating: 3.5 stars
wine pairing: dry creek zinfandel