Troubling the Water is a thoughtful, accessible life-perspective on the continuing effects of race and social class and other forms of other-vs-same tribalism on individuals' choices and especially their likelinesses to tend toward violence, as well as what approaches might both improve individuals' options and choices and the overall social environment.

Persistent and optimistic, but realistic and very cognizant of what hasn't worked, McBride outlines his simply inclusive "radical belonging" philosophy, the experiences than led him there, and his hopes for a better future for everyone.