SuitabookThe Kite Runner
Khaled Hosseini
- Reading
- Read alongside brief background on Afghan history, Sunni and Shia Islam, and the persecution of Hazaras. Pause after distressing chapters, and discuss how the novel’s perspective shapes understanding of its historical setting.
- Themes
- Betrayal, guilt and redemption: Amir’s friendship with Hassan is damaged by betrayal, and later events give him an opportunity to confront guilt and seek redemption. The narrative appears to examine moral responsibility rather than presenting Amir’s choices as uncomplicatedly admirable.
- Friendship, family and unequal power: Amir and Hassan are described as close friends, while their different social positions and Amir’s relationship with his father shape the story. The relationships are presented as emotionally important but affected by secrecy, unequal status and parental expectations.
- Afghanistan, prejudice and political change: The personal story unfolds through the overthrow of the king, Soviet invasion, civil unrest, Taliban rule and migration to the United States. The novel connects political change with effects on individuals and communities, while also addressing ethnic and religious divisions.
- Worth knowing
- Consider whether the reader would benefit from support before or during scenes involving sexual violence, graphic injury, murder, suicide attempt, bereavement, strong profanity, alcohol, drugs and religious or ethnic prejudice.