From Emmy Award–winning comedian, former Daily Show host, and #1 New York Times bestselling author Trevor Noah comes the young readers edition of his acclaimed memoir—a powerful and deeply personal story of growing up under and after apartheid in South Africa.

“A piercing reminder that every mad life—even yours—could end up a masterpiece.” —Jason Reynolds, #1 New York Times bestselling author

We do horrible things to one another because we don’t see the person it affects. . . . We don’t see them as people.

Born to a Black South African mother and a white European father, Trevor Noah entered the world at a time when his very existence violated apartheid law. With humor and sharp insight, Trevor recounts his childhood navigating a deeply unjust society, where his mother's unwavering love helped him survive and thrive.

Adapted for young readers from the #1 New York Times bestseller Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood, this unforgettable memoir explores identity, family, race, and resilience through one extraordinary life. Trevor's story offers young readers a compelling perspective on South Africa's tumultous racial history and on the power of hope, courage, and finding your place in the world. "Through the foreign, the familiar, and the funny, Born a Crime is a piercing reminder that every mad life--even yours--could end up a masterpiece." --Jason Reynolds, New York Times bestselling author

"His mother raised him with an imagination and showed that there were no barriers to whatever he wanted to be. Readers will find this journey through Noah's formative years humorous and exciting." --Booklist

"Startling in its honesty, humor, and humility." --Kirkus Reviews 

"For readers who will appreciate the understand how a parent's love enabled Noah to become the successful man he is now." --School Library Journal