Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime Book Summary - Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime Book explained in key points
Listen to the Intro
00:00

Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime summary

Stories from a South African Childhood

4.4 (58 ratings)
42 mins

Brief summary

In "Born a Crime", Trevor Noah shares his memoir of growing up in South Africa during apartheid. From his experiences as a mixed-race child to his rise to success as a comedian, he offers a poignant and humorous perspective on race, identity, and the power of laughter.

Table of Contents

    Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime
    Summary of 8 key ideas

    Audio & text in the Blinkist app
    Key idea 1 of 8

    Introduction

    Bedtime Biographies are best when listened to.  Check out the audio version to get the full experience!

     

    You’ve almost certainly heard of the world-famous South African comedian Trevor Noah. Maybe you know him as host of The Daily Show. Or perhaps you’ve seen some of his stand-up comedy, where he’s known for his uncanny impressions, his impressive knack for languages, and the ability to make painful anecdotes hilarious. 

    What you might not know is that he had quite the extraordinary upbringing in South Africa – and that he overcame great odds to achieve his fame. At the center of his story is the love and strength he received from his unforgettable mother.

    Settle in, and get cozy. This one’s a heart-warmer!

    Want to see all full key ideas from Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime?

    Key ideas in Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime

    More knowledge in less time
    Read or listen
    Read or listen
    Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
    Find your next read
    Find your next read
    Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
    Shortcasts
    Shortcasts New
    We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.

    What is Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime about?

    Narrated by Valeri Ross

    Music by Federico Coderoni 

    Born a Crime (2016) is about comedian and television host Trevor Noah's childhood and adolescence in apartheid-era and post-apartheid South Africa. A child of mixed heritage, Born a Crime details the challenges Noah faced and the social paradoxes that existed as he was growing up.

    Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime Review

    Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime (2020) by Trevor Noah is a captivating memoir that offers a unique perspective on growing up in apartheid South Africa. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:

    • Through vivid storytelling and heartfelt anecdotes, Noah paints a powerful picture of his childhood experiences, providing insight into the complexities of racial segregation.
    • The book delves into themes of resilience and identity, exploring Noah's journey of navigating between different racial and cultural worlds.
    • With a perfect blend of humor and thoughtfulness, Noah brings a fresh and compelling voice to the narrative, ensuring that the book keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

    Who should read Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime?

    • Trevor Noah fans
    • Those interested in life during and after apartheid in South Africa
    • Anyone after an inspiring personal story

    About the Author

    Trevor Noah is a world-renowned South African comedian, as well as a radio and television host. He has been hosting the Daily Show since September 2015, and has won numerous prizes, most recently the 2017 MTV Movie & TV Awards for Best Host.

    Categories with Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime

    Book summaries like Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime

    People ❤️ Blinkist 
    Sven O.

    It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.

    Thi Viet Quynh N.

    Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.

    Jonathan A.

    Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.

    Renee D.

    Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.

    People also liked these summaries

    4.7 Stars
    Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
    34 Million
    Downloads on all platforms
    10+ years
    Experience igniting personal growth
    Powerful ideas from top nonfiction

    Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.

    Start your free trial

    Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime FAQs 

    What is the main message of Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime?

    The main message of Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime is resilience and the power of laughter in overcoming adversity.

    How long does it take to read Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime?

    The reading time for Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime varies, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime is definitely worth reading. It offers a unique perspective on Trevor Noah's life, filled with humor and insightful observations.

    Who is the author of Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime?

    The author of Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime is Trevor Noah.

    What to read after Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Bedtime Biography: Born a Crime, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
    • Bedtime Biography: Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela
    • Bedtime Biography: Florence Nightingale by Cecil Woodham Smith
    • Bedtime Biography: Notorious RBG by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik
    • Bedtime Biography: Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly
    • Bedtime Biography: Harriet Tubman by Catherine Clinton
    • Likeable Badass by Alison Fragale
    • Walmart by Natalie Berg and Bryan Roberts
    • Bedtime Biography: The Autobiography of Eleanor Roosevelt by Eleanor Roosevelt
    • The 4-Hour Body by Tim Ferriss