Born a Crime cover

Books Like Born a Crime: 12 Reads You’ll Love Next

Inspired by Born a Crime by Trevor Noah (2016)

Looking for your next Born a Crime? You won't find an exact replica (you never do), but these 10 books come close in the ways that matter. Each one captures a piece of what made Trevor Noah's novel resonate โ€” whether it's the funny feel, the sharp character work, or the way it makes you think about it days later.

The Recommendations

Becoming cover

Becoming

by Michelle Obama

Like Born a Crime, this book leans into a inspiring mood โ€” perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Educated cover

Educated

by Tara Westover

Like Born a Crime, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood โ€” perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Untamed cover

Untamed

by Glennon Doyle

Like Born a Crime, this book leans into a inspiring mood โ€” perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Atomic Habits cover

Atomic Habits

by James Clear

Like Born a Crime, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood โ€” perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck cover

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

by Mark Manson

Like Born a Crime, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood โ€” perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Crying in H Mart cover

Crying in H Mart

by Michelle Zauner

Shares the same memoir sensibilities that made Born a Crime work, with a fresh voice and setting.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo cover

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Like Born a Crime, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood โ€” perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

1984 (adaptation) cover

1984 (adaptation)

by George Orwell

Like Born a Crime, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood โ€” perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

The Midnight Library cover

The Midnight Library

by Matt Haig

Like Born a Crime, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood โ€” perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Dune cover

Dune

by Frank Herbert

Like Born a Crime, this book leans into a thought-provoking mood โ€” perfect if that was what drew you to the original.

Each book below was hand-picked because it captures something specific about why Born a Crime resonated with so many readers. Some share its mood, some share its themes, all share its quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What book should I read after Born a Crime?

Our top recommendation is Becoming by Michelle Obama. It captures a similar feel with its inspiring atmosphere and complex storytelling. It is the closest match to Born a Crime in mood and tone.

Is there a sequel to Born a Crime?

Check the author page for Trevor Noah to see all of their books and series information. Many authors of standalone novels have other books in similar styles even if Born a Crime is not part of a series.

What genre is Born a Crime?

Born a Crime blends elements from memoir, biography. The recommendations above stay true to this genre mix while bringing fresh perspectives.

Are there any books like Born a Crime but lighter?

For a lighter take on similar themes, look at our cozy and comforting mood pages. They feature books that share Born a Crime's emotional depth without the darker undertones.

What other books has Trevor Noah written?

Visit our Trevor Noah author guide for a complete reading order and recommendations of where to start.

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