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The Kite Runner

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2003

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Book Brief

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Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

371

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

Kabul, Afghanistan • 1970s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

840L

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.5

3,292,287 ratings

86%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Kite Runner?

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.

4.5

3,292,287 ratings

86%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

371

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

Kabul, Afghanistan • 1970s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

840L

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