Response Questions for Chapters 1-3 of The Color of Water

1. Who is the narrator of Chapter 1 and the other odd-numbered chapters? What is McBride’s objective?

2. What does Ruth say about her father’s views on her current marriage? What is the irony of his views?

3. What was Ruth’s original name and why did she feel compelled to change it to Ruth when she was 20?

4. Describe the events that led Ruth to become ostracized from her parents. Why did hey abandon Ruth?

5. What was the marriage like between Ruth’s parents? How did Ruth relate to her mother and her father?

6. Who is the audience of her narration in Chapter 1 and odd-numbered chapters? What is her objective?

7. Who is the narrator of Chapter 2 and the even-numbered chapters? What is the focus of these chapters?

8. Describe some of the unusual things about James’ childhood? How many siblings were in this family?

9. What happens to James when his stepfather dies? What behaviors does he engage in during this time?

10. What are some differences that James notices between Ruth and the other mothers in the community?
11. When was the first time that Ruth was alone with James and what does he recall about that moment?

12. What advice does his mother give James about other children as he embarks on his first day at school?

13. What does James learn about his siblings one day when his mother was not able to come pick him up?

14. The blue bicycle appears in the early chapters. What does the bicycle symbolize for Ruth at this time?

15. What do you learn about Ruth’s parents in Chapter 3? Why is Ruth so eager to become an American?

16. What was her parent’s religion? Why did Ruth move away from this religion when she became older?

17. Who is Zaydeh and what happens to Ruth when he dies? What becomes her greatest fear later in life?

18. What form of behavior does Ruth adopt to deal with grief and what is her rationale for this behavior?

19. Why does Ruth want to completely forget her past family? What were the worst problems she faced?

20. What are some of the most important things in life for Ruth that she wants to maintain in her family?