Big Books of 2026
Tony asked this question about The Vanishing Half:
Why do you think the author was compelled to bring transsexuality (Reese) into the story?
Bridget at first i was disappointed by the introduction of a transsexual character, I thought it was just pandering to hot button, current issues. But as Rees…moreat first i was disappointed by the introduction of a transsexual character, I thought it was just pandering to hot button, current issues. But as Reese's character evolved, and as his relationship with Jude evolved I saw how his dismorphia with his body paralleled Jude's shame of her dark skin color and that became a worthy and interesting dynamic to explore.
I think Reese and Stella's choices are parallel. They both "crossed over" into another identity. They both left their family behind. The difference is Reese was honest with at least some/most of his new friends. While Stella was alone in her lie. Also Reese did not have a loving, accepting family he left behind, while Stella did. In a sense Stella lost much more by crossing over than Reese did.
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The Vanishing Half
by Brit Bennett (Goodreads Author)
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