Top 13 Books Like ‘Born a Crime’ for Thoughtful Readers

Are you searching for books like 'Born a Crime'? Best known as the host of The Daily Show and stand-up comedy, Trevor Noah brings his signature wit and insight to his memoir, weaving humor into deep themes of racism, identity, and resilience. If 'Born a Crime' is one of your favorite books, and you want to read more like it, you’re in the right place. Below are 13 book recommendations, including The New York Times bestsellers, that explore themes of resilience, identity, and systemic oppression Black people faced during Apartheid.

Key points:

• 'Born a Crime' tells the story of Trevor Noah growing up in South Africa as a mixed-race child during Apartheid. The title reflects how society considered his existence illegal due to his parents' different racial backgrounds.

• The memoir uses humor and personal stories to discuss serious topics like racism and individual challenges, making it relatable and engaging.

What is 'Born a Crime' About?

Trevor Noah's riveting biography joins the ranks of influential memoirs by leaders like Barack Obama. It provides a candid look at his South African childhood, revealing the harsh realities of growing up mixed-race under the oppressive Apartheid regime. As a young man growing up under Apartheid, Trevor Noah faced unique challenges, with his very existence considered illegal due to his heritage and his parents' different racial backgrounds.

Through funny and touching stories, Noah's memoir captures a compelling coming-of-age journey, addressing serious issues like racism, identity, and personal struggles in a profoundly relatable way. He emphasizes the critical role of his mother, Patricia, and explores themes of family, resilience, and adapting to different cultures.

13 Best Books Similar to 'Born a Crime'

If a non-fiction book like 'Born a Crime' resonates with you, you'll find these thought-provoking memoirs and narratives equally impactful. Many of the books recommended here are based on a true story, sharing themes of resilience, identity, and overcoming challenges, much like Noah’s experiences. This extensive booklist reflects these themes, each with a summary and similarities to guide you in finding your next great read. Dive into these stories that resonate with the deep feelings found in Noah's memoir!

1. 'I Am Malala' by Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai's memoir, 'I Am Malala,' tells the inspiring story of her fight for education in the face of Taliban oppression. The narrative highlights her courage and determination as she stands up against systemic challenges. Malala's advocacy for education underscores its transformative power in challenging oppressive systems.

Similarities between the books:

• Both highlight the courage needed to face systemic oppression.

• They stress the importance of education and resilience.

• Both use personal experiences to reveal broader societal truths.

2. 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' by Rebecca Skloot

'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' explores the story of an African American woman whose cells were taken by scientists for testing without her knowledge in 1951. These tests led to significant medical breakthroughs. The narrative delves into the systemic racism that overlooked her contributions and the ethical issues surrounding consent in medical research.

Similarities between the books:

• Both books delve into the lasting effects of segregation and systemic racism, offering powerful stories of individuals overcoming societal barriers.

• They delve into ethical dilemmas and identity.

• The books’ stories highlight the overlooked contributions of marginalized people.

3. 'Educated' by Tara Westover

'Educated' follows Tara Westover's life growing up with survivalist parents in Idaho and her determination to pursue education against the odds. The memoir illustrates her journey from an isolated upbringing to achieving academic success, showcasing education’s transformative power.

Similarities between the books:

• Both stress the transformative power of education.

• They chronicle journeys from adversity to success.

• The stories reflect family dynamics and beliefs.

4. 'When Breath Becomes Air' by Paul Kalanithi

Paul Kalanithi's 'When Breath Becomes Air' is a poignant memoir capturing his journey as a neurosurgeon facing terminal cancer. The narrative explores profound themes of life, death, and the search for meaning in the face of mortality, offering deep insights into the human experience.

Similarities between the books:

• Both offer profound insights into the human experience.

• They delve into adversity and identity.

• The stories consider personal and societal challenges.

5. 'Becoming' by Michelle Obama

In 'Becoming,' Michelle Obama shares her life's journey, focusing on her personal growth and experiences as First Lady of the United States. Her narrative addresses themes of identity, empowerment, and the challenges faced in public life, offering a compelling story of self-discovery and resilience.

Similarities between the books:

• Both highlight personal growth and empowerment.

• They delve into identity and resilience.

• The stories explore overcoming adversity and public challenges.

6. 'Crying in H Mart' by Michelle Zauner

'Crying in H Mart' delves into the complexities of cultural identity as Michelle Zauner navigates her Korean American heritage. The memoir reflects on the challenges of blending two cultures and the sense of belonging that comes with it. Zauner's experiences reveal the intimate relationship between food and cultural identity.

Similarities between the books:

• Both delve into cultural identity and heritage.

• They stress family bonds and cultural traditions.

• The stories explore personal loss and its impact on identity.

7. 'The Glass Castle' by Jeanette Walls

'The Glass Castle' is a compelling memoir detailing Jeanette Walls' challenging childhood with mentally ill parents and the impact on her mental health and mental illness. Despite her tumultuous upbringing, Walls' journey to success highlights the resilience of the human spirit.

Similarities between the books:

• Both detail challenging childhoods and resilience.

• They delve into complex family relationships.

• The stories consider overcoming adversity and achieving success.

8. 'Pachinko' by Min Jin Lee

'Pachinko' is a multigenerational novel telling the story of Sunja, a young woman navigating life in Japanese-occupied Korea. The book explores identity and resilience in the face of systemic oppression.

Similarities between the books:

• Both explore identity amid systemic oppression.

• They spotlight stories of resilience.

• The themes highlight cultural heritage and generational struggles.

9. 'The Sympathizer' by Viet Thanh Nguyen

'The Sympathizer' is a gripping narrative about a half-Vietnamese, half-French communist spy during the Vietnam War. The novel intertwines personal identity with historical and political contexts, exploring the complexities of mixed-race identity.

Similarities between the books:

• Both delve into mixed-race identity.

• They consider individual and societal challenges.

• The themes weave personal experiences with historical events.

10. 'On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous' by Ocean Vuong

Ocean Vuong's 'On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous' delves into themes of identity, exploring the author's Vietnamese heritage amid the backdrop of the Vietnam War. The narrative is crafted as a letter from a son to his mother, weaving personal and historical trauma into a rich, poetic framework.

Similarities between the books:

• Both address systemic oppression and identity complexity.

• They delve into personal and cultural trauma.

• The stories offer profound insights into identity and resilience.

11. 'Heavy: An American Memoir' by Kiese Laymon

In 'Heavy: An American Memoir,' Kiese Laymon offers a candid exploration of his own life, reflecting on the complexities of identity and societal pressures. The memoir highlights resilience and the strength required to confront personal and societal struggles.

Similarities between the books:

• Both memoirs confront the lasting effects of systemic racism and inequality on personal identity.

• Both authors share deeply vulnerable reflections on navigating trauma and societal expectations.

• Both stories highlight the pivotal role of family, especially mothers, in shaping resilience.

12. 'Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China' by Jung Chang

'Wild Swans' narrates the lives of three generations of women in China, exploring their personal histories against a backdrop of significant societal changes. The memoir illustrates the resilience of women who faced immense hardships through political upheaval, cultural revolutions, and personal struggles.

Similarities between the books:

• Both delve into generational resilience and societal challenges.

• They spotlight personal and political narratives.

• The themes consider courage and determination amid oppression.

13. 'Between the World and Me' by Ta-Nehisi Coates

'Between the World and Me' examines the harsh realities and enduring legacy of systemic racism in America. Coates discusses his experiences and vulnerabilities as a Black individual, reflecting on the struggle against systemic injustice.

Similarities between the books:

• Both tackle systemic racism and personal identity.

• They probe into societal challenges and personal resilience.

• The stories offer profound insights into the human experience.

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