The Kite Runner

Author: Hosseini
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-05-01
Features: ★ A debut novel by an Afghan author ★ Top-ranked on nine bestseller lists in the U.S., including The New York Times and Publishers Weekly ★ The Observer's Best Book of 2005 in the UK ★ Bestseller at Taiwan's Ch bookstore, Kingstone bookstore, and bookstore ★ Held the top spot on The New York Times bestseller list for over 80 weeks, surpassing the global phenomenon "The Da Vinci Code" by Dan Brown. The renowned author Isabel Allende said, "This novel is so shocking that for a long time, everything I've read pales in comparison. All the important themes of life and literature are woven into this extraordinary work: love, fear, guilt, redemption." The media has also praised it extensively. The Washington Post remarked, "Without pretentious fluff or exaggerated sorrow, only refined prose that delicately portrays family and friendship, betrayal and redemption. The author's love for his homeland is as deep as his hatred for what has brought it to its current state of turmoil. The story unfolds gently, with a light touch, reminiscent of Kawabata Yasunari's 'The Thousand Cranes.'"
At the age of 12, Amir, a wealthy Afghan boy, and his servant Hassan share a brotherly bond. However, after a kite flying competition, a tragic event occurs. Amir feels guilty and in pain for his cowardice and forces Hassan to leave. Soon after, Amir himself follows his father to flee to the U.S. As an adult, Amir can never forgive himself for betraying Hassan. To atone, he returns to his homeland after more than two decades, hoping to do whatever he can for his unfortunate friend. But he discovers a shocking lie, and his childhood nightmare repeats itself. How will Amir choose? The novel is both cruel and beautiful, as the author uses a warm and delicate style to portray the essence of human nature and redemption, leaving readers deeply moved.