Are you looking for a powerful audiobook that explores the intricacies of race relations in the twentieth century while also delivering a captivating family saga? Look no further than The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett, narrated by Shayna Small. In this review, we’ll dive into why this audiobook is a must-listen, where you can find it, a summary of the story, and much more.
Where to Listen The Vanishing Half
You can find The Vanishing Half audiobook on various platforms, including Audible, Google Play Books, and Apple Books. Audible offers a free trial period that includes one audiobook of your choice, making it a great place to start. You can also purchase the audiobook on these platforms or check it out from your local library.
Chapters for The Vanishing Half audiobook
| Chapter | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The End | The story opens with an event that sets the stage for the book |
| 2 | One | The Vignes twins’ childhood in Mallard, Louisiana |
| 3 | Stella | Stella’s decision to run away and pass as white |
| 4 | Desiree | Desiree’s life after Stella leaves and marries |
| 5 | Jude | Jude’s adolescence and coming of age |
| 6 | Early Adulthood | Stella’s life as a white woman and Desiree’s return to Mallard |
| 7 | Kennedy | Jude’s relationship with Reese Kennedy |
| 8 | Jude and Kennedy | Jude’s life as a transgender woman and her relationship with Kennedy |
| 9 | Late Adulthood | The twins’ lives and their daughters’ lives intersect once again |
| 10 | Last | The story’s climax and resolution |
Each chapter provides a different perspective on the lives of the Vignes twins and their families, revealing more about their experiences and the impact of their choices. The audiobook version, narrated by Shayna Small, brings these characters and their stories to life with rich and nuanced performances, making for a truly engaging listening experience.
the vanishing half summary
The Vanishing Half is a tale of twin sisters, Desiree and Stella Vignes, who grew up in a small, southern black community in the 1950s. After running away from home at age 16, Desiree and Stella go their separate ways, with Stella passing herself off as white and eventually marrying a white man. Desiree, on the other hand, marries a dark-skinned man and has a daughter with him. The story takes a twist when the sisters’ daughters, Jude and Kennedy, meet and discover the truth about their family history.
Through the lens of the Vignes twins and their descendants, Bennett explores the intricacies of race, identity, and family. The novel examines the choices that people make and how those decisions shape their lives and the lives of those around them. Bennett’s prose is masterful, weaving together different timelines and perspectives to create a captivating narrative that is both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating.
Narration by Shayna Small
Shayna Small’s narration of The Vanishing Half is nothing short of excellent. She brings each character to life with nuance and sensitivity, capturing their distinct voices and personalities. Her performance adds depth and dimension to the story, making it an even more compelling listening experience.
Small’s voice is rich and expressive, conveying the emotional weight of the novel’s themes while also delivering the lighter moments with levity and humor. Her pacing is spot-on, keeping the story moving at a brisk pace without ever feeling rushed or overwhelming. Overall, Small’s narration is a true standout in the world of audiobooks.
the vanishing half audiobook
For those searching for the best audiobooks on race relations and family sagas, The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett, narrated by Shayna Small, is a must-listen. With its exploration of identity and choices, this novel is an emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating story that will keep listeners engaged from start to finish. Shayna Small’s masterful narration brings the characters and themes to life, making this an even more compelling listening experience. You can find The Vanishing Half audiobook on Audible, Google Play Books, and Apple Books, among other platforms.
Things to learn from The Vanishing Half audiobook
| Things to Learn from The Vanishing Half Audiobook |
|---|
| 1. The concept of “passing” and its effects on an individual’s identity and relationships |
| 2. The impact of racism and colorism on individuals and communities |
| 3. The complexities of family dynamics and relationships, particularly in a multi-generational family saga |
| 4. The historical and cultural context of the Civil Rights Movement and its ongoing effects on society |
| 5. The consequences of secrets and lies, both for individuals and for their communities |
| 6. The importance of individual agency and the power of choice in shaping one’s own life |
| 7. The role of education in expanding opportunities and breaking down barriers |
| 8. The resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity and injustice |
| 9. The importance of empathy and understanding in building connections across differences |
| 10. The complexity of human identity and the ways in which it is shaped by both individual choices and societal forces |
Conclusion
The Vanishing Half audiobook is a true gem, offering a powerful and nuanced exploration of race, identity, and family. Brit Bennett’s masterful storytelling is made even more compelling by Shayna Small’s excellent narration. Whether you’re a fan of family sagas, coming-of-age tales, or explorations of race relations, The Vanishing Half is a must-listen that will stay with you long after the final chapter.
FAQs
Q: Is The Vanishing Half audiobook available in multiple formats?
A: Yes, The Vanishing Half audiobook is available in various formats such as CD, MP3 CD, and downloadable audio.
Q: Who narrates The Vanishing Half audiobook?
A: The Vanishing Half audiobook is narrated by Shayna Small.
Q: How long is The Vanishing Half audiobook?
A: The total length of The Vanishing Half audiobook is 10 hours and 56 minutes.
Q: What is the genre of The Vanishing Half audiobook?
A: The Vanishing Half audiobook belongs to the genre of historical fiction.
Q: Is The Vanishing Half audiobook appropriate for all ages?
A: The Vanishing Half audiobook is suitable for adult audiences due to its mature themes and language.
Q: What is the storyline of The Vanishing Half audiobook?
A: The Vanishing Half audiobook tells the story of twin sisters who run away from their small town in Louisiana, and how their lives take very different paths. One of the sisters passes herself off as white, while the other marries a dark-skinned man and stays in their hometown. The audiobook explores themes of race, identity, family, and love.
Q: Is The Vanishing Half audiobook available for free?
A: The Vanishing Half audiobook is not available for free, but it can be purchased or borrowed from libraries.
Q: Can I listen to The Vanishing Half audiobook offline?
A: Yes, The Vanishing Half audiobook can be downloaded and listened to offline, depending on the format in which it is purchased or borrowed.
Q: Can I return The Vanishing Half audiobook if I don’t like it?
A: The return policy for The Vanishing Half audiobook varies depending on the retailer or library from which it was purchased or borrowed. It’s best to check with the retailer or library for their specific return policy.
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