91 pages • 3 hours read
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371
Novel • Fiction
Kabul, Afghanistan • 1970s
2003
Adult
18+ years
840L
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini follows the story of Amir and Hassan, two close friends and half-brothers in 1970s Afghanistan, navigating societal divides and personal betrayal. Amir wins a kite fighting tournament, but Hassan is assaulted by a bully, Assef. This event drives a rift between them. Years later, Amir seeks redemption by rescuing Hassan's son, Sohrab, from Taliban rule. The narrative portrays themes of friendship, family secrets, and the quest for atonement amidst Afghanistan's tragic backdrop. The story includes topics related to sexual violence and trauma.
Melancholic
Emotional
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Inspirational
3,292,287 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini captivates readers with its powerful storytelling and vivid portrayal of Afghan culture, garnering praise for its emotional depth and compelling characters. However, some critique its melodramatic elements and predictability. Overall, it remains a poignant exploration of friendship, betrayal, and redemption.
A reader who would enjoy The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is likely drawn to emotionally rich, character-driven narratives with themes of redemption, friendship, and cultural history. Fans of works like Atonement by Ian McEwan and To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, which delicately balance personal and social conflicts, will find this novel compelling.
3,292,287 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Hassan
Hassan is Amir's half-brother and closest childhood friend in *The Kite Runner*. Raised alongside Amir, he is known for his humility, courage, and unwavering sense of justice. As a Hazara, Hassan faces racism and persecution but remains a steadfast moral center. His relationship with Amir is marked by loyalty and sacrifice, which significantly influences Amir's life decisions.
Baba
Baba, known as "Mr. Hurricane," is Amir's father in *The Kite Runner*. A strong, generous man with a complex personality, his demanding nature stems from lifelong secrets about his past, including an affair with a servant's wife. Baba's character influences Amir's sense of self-worth and views on courage, and their relationship evolves as they flee war-torn Afghanistan together.
Ali
Ali is a servant in Baba's household in *The Kite Runner*. Raised by Baba's father after being orphaned, Ali is characterized by his humility and goodness, raising Hassan as a single father. Despite his hardships, Ali remains a figure of quiet strength and moral integrity throughout the story.
Assef
Assef is the antagonist in *The Kite Runner*, representing a darker version of privilege and entitlement. Known for his cruelty and sociopathic tendencies, he embodies deep-seated racism and violence. Assef plays a pivotal role in the events that lead Amir to seek redemption for his past wrongs.
Sohrab
Sohrab is the orphaned son of Hassan in *The Kite Runner*. Bearing a strong resemblance to his father, Sohrab becomes a key figure in Amir's journey toward redemption. His character echoes Hassan's, and his relationship with Amir ultimately helps Amir address past regrets and find personal healing.
371
Novel • Fiction
Kabul, Afghanistan • 1970s
2003
Adult
18+ years
840L
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