The world of a child is full of wonder, where even a small patch of grass or a tiny stream can spark curiosity and ignite dreams of exploration. Children often feel misunderstood by adults, believing their joy is unique and unseen. As they grow, these imaginary adventures often fade, replaced by a more realistic perspective. But Trevor Noah, in his 2023 book, Into the Uncut Grass, retains that childlike wonder, taking readers back to the adventures of his youth.
"Whenever people ask me about my favorite childhood memories," Noah writes, "I always have to take a long time to separate the things that actually happened from the things that only happened in my imagination. Because long before I ever got on a real airplane or a real boat, I had traveled the world. I had climbed the highest peaks of the Himalayas and dived into the deepest trenches of the ocean. I had ridden griffins into battle and run from giants seeking revenge for the bread I’d stolen."
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The Vietnamese edition of "Into the Uncut Grass", translated by Tuong Vi and published by Dan Tri in collaboration with First News, was released in 8/2023. Photo: First News |
The Vietnamese edition of "Into the Uncut Grass", translated by Tuong Vi and published by Dan Tri in collaboration with First News, was released in 8/2023. Photo: First News
Into the Uncut Grass, a children's book illustrated by Sabina Hahn, centers on a young boy who prefers exploration to obedience. His companion, an old teddy bear named Walter, offers important life lessons.
Their adventure begins with a disagreement. The boy, convinced his mother "doesn't understand what it's like to be a kid," justifies his disobedience. Walter, believing "all adults were once children," is sure the boy's mother will find him, no matter where he goes. This prompts the boy to venture with Walter into the uncut grass – a place neither has ever been.
The journey is filled with the strange and potentially dangerous. The runaway pair encounters unusual characters: a gnome guarding a gate, two snails, and some old coins. Each encounter teaches the boy about family, sharing, connection, and love. He learns to understand disagreements and overcome differences to find the true value of relationships.
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The boy and his teddy bear, Walter, as illustrated by Sabina Hahn. Photo: First News |
The boy and his teddy bear, Walter, as illustrated by Sabina Hahn. Photo: First News
The Vietnamese publisher introduces the book as follows: "Although a picture book, this isn't just for children; it's also for us – adults who were once children. As the author says, 'If you have children and parents, or neither, you can still read this book to yourself, to a stranger, or to someone you love, even to a snail crawling by the side of the road. I hope this book reminds you that we are all on this journey, pushing our way into the uncut grass together.'"
The book boasts a 4.6/5 star rating on Amazon, along with praise from critics and readers. The Washington Post calls it "a fable for all ages, highlighting the power of imagination and how we choose to perceive the world around us,". Parade notes that, "like The Little Prince, the story is adorned with charming illustrations and imbued with Trevor Noah's subtle reflections on life. Meaningful lessons are conveyed with remarkable gentleness and ease,".
An American reader on Amazon commented, "This book truly appeals to all ages – I might even enjoy it more than my child. Amidst the emotive illustrations and flowing prose lie profound philosophies,".
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Author and television host Trevor Noah, 41. Photo: Instagram/ Trevor Noah |
Author and television host Trevor Noah, 41. Photo: Instagram/ Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah, born in 1984, is a well-known American comedian and television host. His first book, the memoir Born a Crime (2016), which was recommended by billionaire Bill Gates, topped the New York Times bestseller list and won the 2017 Thurber Prize for American Humor.
Sabina Hahn, a Latvian illustrator, animator, and sculptor, currently resides in New York. According to Penguin Random House, her love of reading and doodling from a young age led her to the world of children's books. Her greatest talent lies in conveying the subtle humor and tenderness of both everyday life and fantasy through her brushstrokes.
Phuong Thao
