Must Read Bestsellers

During this year’s World Book Day, two novels worthy of bestselling status are on September Set’s list of favorites, “The Vanishing Half” and “Transcendent Kingdom”. Brit Bennett and Yaa Gyasi’s must reads offer historical fiction that illustrates themes that are rarely discussed and uniquely experienced by Black families in the U.S.

The Vanishing Half

This pager turner centers on the connection of twin sisters who leave their town in the deep South to find experiences that will alter the lives of themselves and those that they love. Author, Brit Bennett, doesn’t shy away from the realties of racism, colorism and domestic violence in this intense novel. The Vanishing Half is a quick read because you will have trouble putting this book down until you reach the final page.

Transcendent Kingdom

This poetic novel from Yaa Gyasi features the plight of a Ghanaian family residing in Huntsville, Alabama. Transcendent Kingdom pulls the reader into the state of emotions that accompany issues like racism, grief, substance abuse and mental illness so well that holding back tears is a challenge. Simply put, this beautifully written text is a must read.