The Kiterunner, by Khaled Hosseini
This is a story about Amir, a young boy growing up in Afghanistan in the 1960s. He is the son of a wealthy businessman, and lives a privileged life in an affluent neighbourhood. However, he is not completely happy. Amir struggles to win his father’s affections, but always feels like he comes up short. He feels like he is competing for his father with his servant’s son, Hassan, who grew up with him. Hassan is like a brother to him. He is his constant playmate, and he worships Amir, but Amir cannot bring himself to call his servant’s son his friend. The relationship they share is a complicated one, full of love and betrayal, trust and brotherhood.
In Afghanistan there is one annual tournament that is considered one of the most popular events of the year; the kite-flying tournament. Amir hopes that by winning this tournament, he can win over his father’s love for once and for all. He wins the tournament, and with it, his father’s approval. However, something happens to him and Hassan that day that haunts him for the rest of his life.
Though he grows up to be successful and satisfied, he is never truly at peace. He realizes his dreams, and has a very good life, but the events of that year continue to trouble him, until he has to return to his home to make things right.
This book is about a young boy and his struggles while growing up, and how he has to face the ghosts of his childhood even as a grown man. It is his story, but it is also something more. It is about strength and courage, honesty and integrity, identity, and being true to yourself and your character.
Khaled Hosseini has written a great book, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants a good story with an important message.
Ishanee, Age 16
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