2016 Oct 14
by Vandana Hiranand
Afghanistan, 1975: Twelve-year-old Amir is desperate to win the local kite-fighting tournament and his loyal friend Hassan promises to help him. But neither of the boys can foresee what will happen to Hassan that afternoon, an event that is to shatter their lives. After the Russians invade and the family is forced to flee to America, Amir realises that one day he must return to Afghanistan under Taliban rule to find the one thing that his new world cannot grant him: redemption.
Set against the backdrop of tragic Afghanistan and its history, Hosseini relays an enthralling tale. Granted, you might want to fling the book across the room for tearing your heart apart, but you won’t because you’ll be dying to find out what happens. The story revolves around the unlikely friendship between a wealthy boy and the son of his father’s servant. It has all the components of a great narrative: friendship, love, betrayal, redemption and the wealth of reading.
Try as one may, it is exceedingly difficult to find faults in Hosseini’s work. A true masterpiece of fiction, it examines the history and culture of Afghanistan. If you’re looking for a well crafted plot, this book is for you. The Kite Runner is more suited for a serious read due to its content, although the language is easy to understand. Nonetheless, this particular book is worth even taking time out of your busy schedule.
Rating: 4.8/5 stars
