Wowza, this was one hell of a book. Outstanding writing, blending in humour, dark humour, the history of apartheid and racism, as well as Noah’s personal history. 

I was most interested by the history of apartheid, as told from the ground up. Most of us know of it more as a concept than the reality. And here Noah gives it in writing, not only what happened but the repercussions of the same. The dehumanization of the people in South Africa by white invaders is beyond shocking. What I found especially riveting was how Noah contextualizes the world’s reaction to the ill treatment of Black people versus the treatment of Jews by the Nazis. We know so much about the Holocaust, and so little about slavery in the Americas and Africa. Noah’s book is a step towards understanding and learning this untold, devastating history. We need to stop centering the plight of only white people over the ongoing suffering of Black people and other communities of colour. 

The misogyny in South Africa is not unknown but still horrifying given how close it is to Noah’s personal life. Absolutely shocking - but it’s the same all over the world, just to varying degrees. Women are not believed, even when they have proof. 

This book is often an amusing read, because Noah is a comedian and that comes out in his storytelling. But this book is not an easy read. Take breaks, take care of your mental health. But it’s a look behind the curtain of a regime that’s often talked about but not explained. 

An excellent if harrowing read. But a must-read all the same.