Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood (One World Essentials) 

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Over one million copies sold! A “brilliant” (Lupita Nyong’o, Time), “poignant” (Entertainment Weekly), and “soul-nourishing” (USA Today) memoir that captures Trevor Noah’s coming-of-age journey during the final years of apartheid in South Africa.

“Noah’s childhood stories are told with all the hilarity and intellect that characterizes his comedy, while illuminating a dark and brutal period in South Africa’s history that must never be forgotten.” — Esquire

Winner of the Thurber Prize for American Humor and an NAACP Image Award • Named one of the best books of the year by The New York Times, USA Today, San Francisco Chronicle, NPR, Esquire, Newsday, and Booklist.

Born a Crime is Trevor Noah’s unforgettable memoir tracing his journey from apartheid South Africa to becoming host of The Daily Show. Born to a white Swiss father and a Black Xhosa mother—an illegal union punishable by prison—Trevor’s very existence was evidence of a crime. Hidden indoors for much of his early childhood, he grew up navigating danger, identity, and a divided society with only his sharp wit and his fearless, devout, and fiercely loving mother by his side.

Filled with humor, heartbreak, and profound insight, Born a Crime paints a vivid portrait of resilience and love in the face of systemic oppression. Whether it’s eating caterpillars for dinner, being thrown from a moving car, or dodging trouble in school, Noah’s sharp storytelling and unflinching honesty make this a deeply human and inspiring read. A powerful, hilarious, and moving memoir about defying the odds and finding light in the darkest of places.

• 15-day returns — Refunds & Returns
• Shipping info — Shipping Policy