The Color of Water by James McBride

A Black Man's Tribute to His White Mother

This book is a moving memoir that tells the story of a biracial man raised in a housing project in Brooklyn by his white, Jewish mother. The narrative alternates between the author's perspective and his mother's, providing a nuanced view of issues related to race, religion, and identity. The author's mother, a Polish immigrant, married a black man in the 1940s and raised twelve children in the midst of poverty and racial tension. Despite the hardships, she instilled in her children the importance of education and self-reliance. The book is a tribute to the strength, resilience, and love of this remarkable woman.

The 922nd greatest book of all time


Published
1995
Nationality
American
Type
Nonfiction
Pages
300-350
Words
76,000
Original Language
English
Alternate Titles
None

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