The Color of Water: A Black Man's Tribute to His White Mother

Ken McBride

The Color of Water: A Black Man's Tribute to His White Mother, by James McBride, is a book that I believe everyone would enjoy. I had the good fortune to be given this book by a good friend and I have, since reading it, recommended it to family and friends. I can guarantee that this is an absolutely unique story. James McBride grew up as the eighth child in his family. He grew up black, living in black neighborhoods. He father died before he was born, and his mother remarried and had four more children with another black husband. His mother is a white woman, born in Poland, who immigrated to America with her orthodox Jewish parents.

The author became a successful journalist. The well-written story results from his efforts to trace his roots on his mother's side. To say this story is mind-boggling is a gross understatement. This book was on "The New York Times" Best Seller List for over two years, so it is not exactly undiscovered. If you want a book that is fascinating, will blow your mind, is very uplifting, easy to read and enthralling, this is book for you. I rate it as a Must Read for everyone.

Review by Len Oppenheim