The Kite Runner in Classics Without All the Class

Apr 12, 2015 Leo Walsh rated it liked it

The beginning of this book is captivating. Set in Kabul before the Russian invasion, wars between Mujaheddin factions -- and, thus, the Taliban -- the protagonist Amir is a spoiled and unlikable. He lords his wealthy status over his servant's son Hassan. Hassan, however, looks right past the abuse and loves Amir unconditionally.

And thus begins the split feelings I have about this book. On one side, it is great literature. By giving us a lout as the point-of-view character, Hosseini does somethi ...more

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Aug 07, 2010 Carol rated it really liked it

Set in 1970 is an eye-opening account of a country's (Afghanistan) political turmoil, is the friendship between two young boys: Amir, the wealthy boy; and Hassan, the son of Amir's father's servant. The boys are very close, they share stories, and also spend one special day running kites, where Amir wins. Unfortunately, a sexual abuse has been forced upon Hassan; all while Amir just stands on the side line watching. Amir doesn't even try to help his best friend. From this unspeakable event, ever ...more

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Mar 31, 2010 Claire Naden rated it really liked it

I have been studying Middle Eastern History and find Hosseini's books timely for what I have been doing but while I enjoyed this book loved Thousand Splendid Suns! ...more

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Jul 28, 2020 Staciel rated it really liked it

Shelves: fb-booklist-challange, 2020-reading-challenge

It's taken me several days to process this one.

Not an easy read at all... gritty and disturbing.

I am glad that I read it, though-- living safely in the US, this book is a nice wake-up call and reminder that I should count my blessings more often. ...more

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