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A review by sarahj13
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
5.0
The Kite Runner, written by Afghan-American author Khaled Hosseini, is an enthralling and heart wrenching story, set mainly in Afghanistan, highlighting the fall of its monarchy through the soviet invasion, the exodus of the refugees to Pakistan and the United states, and the Taliban regime. The story revolves around two young boys, Amir, who is also the narrator of the story, and Hassan who, despite being separated by the barrier of cast and status- as Hassan is a Hazara and hence, Amir's servant- are the closest of friends, growing up underneath the same roof. However because of Hassan's unwavering loyalty and courage, he becomes the subject of Amir's jealousy, who tries desperately to get into his father's good books. This leads to him often questioning his friendship with Hassan, as his father also seems to prefer Hassan over him. In the winter of 1975, after the local kite tournament, a tragic event takes place with Hassan. Although Amir witnesses the whole event in hiding, he does not take any action and chooses to run away instead. Admitting his cowardice, he tries hard not to cross paths with Hassan. Hassan and his father eventually quit working for Amir and his father, and the latter two flee to San Francisco, U.S. In the events that follow, Amir accomplishes many things in life. Fifteen years later he visits his father's old friend Rahim Khan, in Pakistan. From him, Amir learns about Hassan.
The language of the book is simple yet effective, that accurately paints a picture in one's mind. The corrupted Taliban regime and the difficulties faced by the citizens of Kabul were well portrayed. The novel really grasped the theme of redemption and the differences in cast set by society. The author has written another book after this, The Thousand Splendid Suns. Although not as widely popular, it has similar themes to the Kite Runner, written from a woman's perspective instead. Though the novel does contain many explicit themes such as sexual abuse, sadism, with some offensive language and violence, its impactful story and captivating words holdthe ringing truth of the conditions in Afghanistan, make it a must read.
The language of the book is simple yet effective, that accurately paints a picture in one's mind. The corrupted Taliban regime and the difficulties faced by the citizens of Kabul were well portrayed. The novel really grasped the theme of redemption and the differences in cast set by society. The author has written another book after this, The Thousand Splendid Suns. Although not as widely popular, it has similar themes to the Kite Runner, written from a woman's perspective instead. Though the novel does contain many explicit themes such as sexual abuse, sadism, with some offensive language and violence, its impactful story and captivating words holdthe ringing truth of the conditions in Afghanistan, make it a must read.