The Color of Water by James McBride

Last updated: Sep 9, 2023

Summary of The Color of Water by James McBride

The Color of Water is a memoir written by James McBride, which tells the story of his mother, Ruth McBride Jordan, a white Jewish woman who married a black man and raised twelve biracial children in a predominantly black neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York.

The book is structured as a dual narrative, alternating between Ruth's life story and James' own experiences growing up. Ruth was born in Poland in the early 1920s and grew up in a strict Orthodox Jewish household. She faced discrimination and poverty, but managed to escape her difficult circumstances by moving to America at the age of two with her family.

Ruth's family settled in Suffolk, Virginia, where they faced racism and anti-Semitism. Despite the challenges, Ruth managed to excel academically and eventually attended college in New York City. It was during this time that she met and fell in love with Andrew Dennis McBride, a black man. They got married and had their first child, Dennis, but faced immense opposition from both their families and society.

Ruth and Andrew moved to New York City, where they faced further discrimination and struggled to make ends meet. They had more children, and Ruth worked multiple jobs to support her family. However, tragedy struck when Andrew died of lung cancer, leaving Ruth a widow with young children.

After Andrew's death, Ruth focused on raising her children and instilling in them the values of education and hard work. She eventually remarried to Hunter Jordan, a black man who became a loving stepfather to her children. Despite the challenges of being a mixed-race family in a racially divided society, Ruth and Hunter provided a stable and loving home for their children.

James, the eighth child, grew up with a strong sense of identity and a deep curiosity about his mother's past. As he grew older, he became more aware of the racial tensions in society and struggled with his own racial identity. He faced discrimination and prejudice, but also found solace in music and writing.

As James delves deeper into his mother's past, he discovers that she had kept many secrets from her children, including her Jewish heritage and the details of her abusive childhood. Despite the pain and hardships she endured, Ruth remained resilient and determined to provide a better life for her children.

The Color of Water is a powerful exploration of race, identity, and family. It highlights the complexities of interracial relationships and the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. Through his mother's story, James McBride paints a vivid picture of a woman who defied societal norms and raised a loving and successful family.

1. The Power of Identity

In "The Color of Water," one of the most profound takeaways is the power of identity. The book explores the author's struggle with his biracial identity and his mother's journey as a white Jewish woman who married a black man. McBride's search for his own identity is a universal theme that many readers can relate to. It highlights the importance of understanding and embracing one's heritage, regardless of societal expectations or pressures.

This takeaway is actionable in that it encourages individuals to explore their own identities and understand the various factors that shape who they are. It prompts readers to reflect on their own heritage, cultural background, and personal experiences to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. By embracing their identity, individuals can develop a stronger sense of self and navigate the complexities of their own lives with more confidence and authenticity.

2. The Impact of Family Secrets

The book delves into the impact of family secrets and the toll they can take on individuals and relationships. McBride's mother, Ruth, kept her Jewish heritage a secret from her children, leading to confusion and a sense of disconnect. This takeaway highlights the importance of open communication within families and the potential consequences of withholding information.

Understanding the impact of family secrets can be profound and actionable for readers. It encourages individuals to reflect on their own family dynamics and consider the role of transparency and honesty in their relationships. By addressing and discussing family secrets, individuals can foster healthier and more authentic connections with their loved ones.

3. The Power of Forgiveness

Another key takeaway from "The Color of Water" is the power of forgiveness. McBride's mother faced numerous challenges and hardships throughout her life, including an abusive father and a difficult marriage. Despite these experiences, she was able to forgive and find peace. This takeaway emphasizes the transformative power of forgiveness and its ability to heal wounds and foster personal growth.

This takeaway is actionable as it encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences with forgiveness. It prompts individuals to consider the benefits of letting go of grudges and resentments, both for their own well-being and for the betterment of their relationships. By practicing forgiveness, individuals can free themselves from the burden of anger and resentment, leading to greater emotional well-being and healthier connections with others.

4. The Importance of Education

Education is a recurring theme in "The Color of Water." McBride's mother, despite facing numerous obstacles, emphasized the importance of education to her children. She instilled in them a love for learning and a belief in the power of education to create opportunities and break cycles of poverty.

This takeaway highlights the transformative impact of education and its ability to empower individuals. It encourages readers to prioritize education in their own lives and recognize its potential to open doors and create positive change. By valuing education and seeking opportunities for learning, individuals can expand their horizons, enhance their skills, and pursue their goals with greater confidence and success.

5. The Complexity of Racial Identity

"The Color of Water" explores the complexity of racial identity and challenges the notion of fitting into neat racial categories. McBride's biracial identity and his mother's refusal to conform to societal expectations highlight the limitations of racial labels and the importance of embracing individuality.

This takeaway prompts readers to reflect on their own understanding of race and identity. It encourages individuals to question societal norms and stereotypes, fostering a more inclusive and nuanced perspective. By recognizing the complexity of racial identity, individuals can challenge prejudice and discrimination, promoting a more inclusive and accepting society.

6. The Power of Resilience

The book showcases the power of resilience in the face of adversity. McBride's mother overcame numerous challenges, including poverty, racism, and personal tragedies. Her resilience and determination serve as an inspiration for readers, highlighting the strength of the human spirit.

This takeaway is actionable as it encourages individuals to cultivate resilience in their own lives. It prompts readers to reflect on their own challenges and setbacks, recognizing that resilience is a skill that can be developed and nurtured. By embracing resilience, individuals can navigate difficulties with greater strength and perseverance, ultimately achieving personal growth and success.

7. The Importance of Empathy

"The Color of Water" emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding. McBride's exploration of his mother's experiences as a white Jewish woman in a predominantly black community fosters empathy and challenges readers to consider different perspectives.

This takeaway encourages individuals to cultivate empathy in their own lives. It prompts readers to listen and learn from others, seeking to understand their experiences and perspectives. By practicing empathy, individuals can foster stronger connections with others, promote inclusivity, and contribute to a more compassionate society.

8. The Value of Self-Reflection

"The Color of Water" highlights the value of self-reflection and introspection. McBride's journey of self-discovery and his mother's willingness to confront her own past demonstrate the transformative power of self-reflection.

This takeaway is actionable as it encourages readers to engage in self-reflection and introspection. It prompts individuals to examine their own beliefs, values, and experiences, fostering personal growth and self-awareness. By engaging in self-reflection, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and make more informed choices, leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.