Book Club

Please join us for a discussion of Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood by Trevor Noah.

Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood is Trevor Noah’s memoir about growing up in South Africa during and after apartheid. The title refers to the fact that Noah was born to a Black Xhosa mother and a white Swiss father at a time when interracial relationships were illegal, making his very existence a crime.

The book traces Noah’s childhood as he navigates a deeply divided society, moving between racial, cultural, and linguistic worlds. Raised primarily by his fiercely independent and religious mother, Patricia, he learns to adapt quickly, using language, humor, and intelligence as tools for survival. Through a series of vivid, often funny but sometimes painful stories, Noah describes poverty, violence, and systemic racism, as well as the everyday absurdities of apartheid and its aftermath.

At its core, the memoir is both a coming-of-age story and a social critique. It explores identity, belonging, and resilience, highlighting how humor and storytelling can be acts of resistance. The book ultimately honors Noah’s mother’s courage and the role she played in shaping his values, confidence, and eventual path to becoming a comedian and public figure.

Joining a book club is a fantastic way to dive deeper into literature, connect with like-minded individuals, and expand your reading horizons.  Love books? Want to discover new ones, have engaging conversations, and make new friends? Join our non-fiction book club! Whether you're a casual reader or an avid bookworm, it's a fun way to stay motivated and enjoy reading in a community. We’d love to have you!

New book club members are always welcome. Request a copy of the books online or at any SCPL location.