THE VANISHING HALF

The Vanishing Half is the “it” book of the summer, and with good reason. This stunning novel begins with the story of Desiree and Stella, two identical twins growing up in their small, black community in the late 1960s. Scarred by an act of violence they witness as children, restless and poverty stricken in their tiny town, they run away as teens - until one of them vanishes to live her life as a white woman on the other side of the country. As their paths diverge, then threaten to intersect, we witness the irreparable impact of their respective choices and secrets - especially on those they love most, whose own lives are forever altered by the twins’ fractured bond.

Poignant and unforgettable, this story is an exploration of identity and choices. To what degree can we decide who we are? And if we do choose our race, gender or other markers of self - does it change us on the inside? These are not easy questions, and Brit Bennett tackles them with gorgeous writing and beautifully drawn characters. This book is filled with scenes that could be a stand alone short story - the arrival of Stella’s new neighbors come to mind - and many will stay with me long after I finished the last page.

The moment I knew I was in deep with this book: Early’s visits to Desiree as a teen, with his gifts of fruit as they stood on her front step. (If I have any complaint about this book it’s this: MORE Early, please! Such a wonderful character.) So I thought I’d make a fruit-filled treat inspired by their summertime flirtations in the heat. These yogurt and fruit popsicles were a no recipe, ten minute prep, cool you down fast kind of dessert that will definitely be in the summer rotation.