Every once in a while I read a book that stays with me for a very long time. It’s like the characters and situations penetrate my body and soul. Born a Crime the memoir of comedian and Daily Show host, Trevor Noah is that book.
Trevor Noah’s recount of his childhood was so vivid and well described that it plucked me out of my reality and into his earlier years of life in South Africa.
Trevor Noah takes you there— fearlessly and apologetically.
Born a Crime is a nail-biting roller-coaster ride that winds and weaves you through the streets of Soweto as you dodge traffic and squeeze through narrow fences to escape a beating. It is the taste of eating “dog bones” or goat head— feeling the tasteless juices of the eyeballs in your mouth. It is the overwhelming fumes of motor-oil as he tries to sleep in a mechanic shop.
I love how he was able to tell his truth—even though heartbreaking and gut wrenching, with humor.
His mother, Patricia Noah is a force to be reckoned with. Born in a culture where it is ingrained in a society that women must be subservient to their husbands, Patricia Noah is a maverick in her own right. She feels familiar, like someone I could hang with, like a friend. Her strength and grace is such an inspiration. How lucky Trevor Noah is to have her as a role model!
The road from there to here
I can only imagine how strange life must be for him now, seeing where he came from and where he is now. The two worlds are completely opposite. How he got out of a life of despair in South Africa and ended up as a massive success story in the USA is nothing short of a miracle. His mother’s prayers for him to live his best life has been answered!
I am glad Trevor Noah decided to share his story. It brought tears to my eyes and hope in my heart. He deserves every bit of the success he has now and it reminds me of this quote I read:
“Negative experiences have a positive benefit for you because it reminds you of the cost you paid for joy.” ~ Unknown
If you are looking for your next epic read, then pick up a copy of Born a Crime by Trevor Noah. You will not regret it.
