“The Kite Runner” was a book written by Khaled Hosseini and published in 2003. Since then, it has shocked readers with its captivating story and characters that could draw in even those who don’t usually enjoy books.

The novel begins in the setting of Kabul, Afghanistan, where a young boy grows up in the home of his wealthy and well-known father. This unique setting gives insight into Afghan culture, which is vastly different from the culture we are immersed in in America. The author does a good job portraying the values people in Afghanistan emphasize such as strength, honor and loyalty to family.

The main character, Amir, grows up alongside his father’s servant’s son, Hassan. Their bond is like that of brothers, and they experience major life events and milestones together throughout their entire childhoods; for example, they compete together in annual kite running competitions, which is where the novel gets its title as well as a large portion of its action.

The book delves deep into the topics of father-son relationships as well as friendships, and shows how these bonds can be so powerfully formative in both negative and positive ways. The main character struggles with his own insecurities and flaws in his relationships throughout his life, and the author shows how fear of these setbacks can lead people into a life that is not as fulfilling as it could be.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the novel is that its action seems to never cease. There is no long periods of mundane, transitional events or unnecessary reflections from the speaker. Instead, the author shows us the characters’ emotions and thoughts through their actions, which almost always lead into more captivating events. Some scenes of the novel include violence and horrific events that will be upsetting to readers who are not open to this, but the surprise aspect of these descriptions allow it to have a stronger effect on the reader.

Overall, one who reads this novel will finish it with a different aspect on the world. Because the setting and many events in the novel are historically accurate, the impact of the novel’s messages are much more powerful. Many people are unaware of the horrors that the people of Afghanistan faced during this time period of political turmoil and corruption, but this eye-opening story will surely present those who read it with a new perspective on the world around them.