Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

Last updated: Aug 20, 2023

Summary of Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

Born a Crime is a memoir written by Trevor Noah, the host of The Daily Show. The book provides a detailed account of Noah's childhood growing up in South Africa during the apartheid era.

Noah was born to a black Xhosa mother and a white Swiss father, which was illegal under apartheid laws. As a result, he was considered "colored" and faced many challenges and restrictions due to his mixed race.

Noah describes his early years living in the township of Soweto, where poverty and violence were rampant. He shares stories of his resourceful and independent mother, who played a crucial role in shaping his character and providing him with a strong moral compass.

Throughout the book, Noah highlights the absurdity and hypocrisy of apartheid laws, as well as the racial tensions and inequalities that existed in South Africa. He recounts instances of racism and discrimination he experienced firsthand, both from white people and black people who resented his lighter skin.

Despite the hardships, Noah finds solace in humor and storytelling. He discovers his talent for comedy and uses it as a means of survival and escape from the harsh realities of his environment. He shares anecdotes from his early stand-up gigs and his experiences as a DJ on a local radio station.

As Noah grows older, he becomes more aware of the political landscape in South Africa and the fight against apartheid. He witnesses the transition from apartheid to democracy and the election of Nelson Mandela as the country's first black president.

The book also delves into Noah's complicated relationship with his father, who was largely absent from his life. Noah explores the impact of his father's absence and the longing for a connection with him.

Ultimately, Born a Crime is a story of resilience, hope, and the power of laughter in the face of adversity. Noah's unique perspective as a mixed-race individual growing up in a racially divided society offers valuable insights into the complexities of identity and the human spirit.

1. The Power of Adaptability

In "Born a Crime," Trevor Noah shares his experiences growing up in apartheid South Africa as a mixed-race child. One of the key takeaways from the book is the power of adaptability. Noah's ability to navigate through different racial and cultural environments showcases the importance of being adaptable in order to survive and thrive in challenging circumstances.

Noah's mother, Patricia, plays a significant role in teaching him the importance of adaptability. She constantly encourages him to learn different languages and adapt to different social situations. This skill becomes crucial for Noah as he moves between different racial groups, often having to code-switch and adjust his behavior to fit in.

2. The Impact of Language

Language is a recurring theme in "Born a Crime." Noah highlights the power of language to bridge gaps and connect people from different backgrounds. Growing up in South Africa, a country with eleven official languages, Noah learns to speak multiple languages, including English, Afrikaans, Zulu, and Xhosa.

Language becomes a tool for survival and understanding. Noah's ability to speak different languages allows him to navigate various social situations and build relationships with people from different racial and cultural backgrounds. It also helps him challenge stereotypes and break down barriers.

3. The Importance of Education

Education is emphasized throughout the book as a means of empowerment and escape from poverty. Noah's mother, despite facing numerous challenges, prioritizes his education and instills in him the belief that education is the key to a better future.

Noah's pursuit of education becomes a driving force in his life. He recognizes the power of knowledge and uses it to challenge societal norms and prejudices. Education becomes a tool for him to rise above his circumstances and create a better life for himself.

4. The Resilience of the Human Spirit

"Born a Crime" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite facing immense adversity, Noah's mother and the people around him demonstrate incredible strength and determination.

Noah's mother, in particular, is a shining example of resilience. She defies societal expectations and fights against the limitations imposed by apartheid. Her unwavering love and support for her son, despite the challenges they face, showcase the indomitable spirit of a mother's love.

5. The Absurdity of Racism

Noah's experiences growing up in apartheid South Africa shed light on the absurdity of racism. He shares anecdotes that highlight the arbitrary nature of racial classifications and the absurdity of the racial hierarchy imposed by the apartheid regime.

Through his storytelling, Noah challenges the notion of racial superiority and exposes the flaws in racist ideologies. He shows that race is a social construct and that the divisions it creates are baseless and harmful.

6. The Power of Humor

Humor is a powerful tool throughout "Born a Crime." Noah uses humor to navigate difficult situations, challenge stereotypes, and connect with people from different backgrounds.

By infusing humor into his storytelling, Noah is able to address serious topics in a way that is accessible and relatable. He uses laughter as a means of breaking down barriers and fostering understanding.

7. The Complexity of Identity

"Born a Crime" explores the complexity of identity, particularly in a racially divided society. Noah's mixed-race heritage presents unique challenges and forces him to navigate between different racial groups.

Noah's experiences highlight the fluidity of identity and the limitations of rigid categorizations. He challenges the notion of fitting into a single racial box and encourages embracing the complexity of one's identity.

8. The Power of Love and Forgiveness

Love and forgiveness are recurring themes in "Born a Crime." Noah's mother's unconditional love and forgiveness towards him and others serve as powerful examples.

Despite the hardships they face, Noah's mother teaches him the importance of love and forgiveness. These values become guiding principles in his life, allowing him to overcome bitterness and embrace empathy.