maryinwonders 's review for:

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
4.25
dark emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

The agonizing inconsistencies of human morality are reflected in this potent tale of guilt, treachery, and redemption. At times, it feels less like fiction and more like a reflection of the injustices that exist in the real world. The protagonist, Amir, lives largely defined by his guilt over not saving Hassan. I see Amir as a child placed in an impossible situation, though many readers find him unlikable. He was helpless and outnumbered, and it seems unjust to expect bravery from a scared boy. Though his guilt was never fully his to bear, it consumed him. I liked that Amir challenged the values embraced by those around him, and I particularly appreciated how he chose Soraya despite society’s judgment.