Written By A.C
Picture Below: Author with book
Information:
Author: Khaled Hosseini/ Genre: Fiction/ Published: May 29, 2003
Summary (Contains Spoilers):
Twelve-year-old Amir Qadiri, better known as Amir Agha (master), prided himself in staying within his limits: a sturdy fence of self-preservation and coping mechanisms. Surrounded by glorified parents and respectable hierarchical figures, Amir was nearly content. The one request he had was for Baba’s (his father's) approval and attention. Baba’s warm gaze and embrace always fell upon Hassan, Amir’s Hazara and it was a spotlight Amir wanted. Despite Amir's self-loathing toward Hassan and their differing social classes, growing up together strengthened their bond. However, as time passed, Amir could no longer overlook the validation he craved from Baba even at the cost of Hassan’s well-being.
Hassan was the village’s most favored kite runner, a natural, unhindered spirit running after kites as his life’s purpose; a title Amir despised. If taking Hassan’s talent meant catching a glimpse of Baba’s acceptance, Amir was no less determined. As Amir began distancing himself, social gaps and seams began to tear between the two; it was no longer Amir and Hassan, it became Amir Agha and Hassan the lowly Hazara. At the annual kite competition, Amir who was taught by Hassan, achieved the final status of happiness- he had flown the kite across the bright blues of Afghanistan. Meanwhile, Hassan, the renowned kite runner, dutifully ran after Amir’s kite’s gold-studded flight. While searching for Amir’s blue kite, Hassan was reminded that he was seated below Amir, a cloud of dust unequal to Amir’s pristine-ness. In the end, loyalty brought back Amir’s kite but took Hassan’s self-dignity. It was Amir’s cowardice and self-preservation that kept his eyes from overanalyzing the bloodied wet patches that stained Hassan’s brown corduroy pants. Hassan’s last words to Amir were, “For you, a thousand times over,” forever eternalized searching for Amir’s blue kite on "that ... beautiful day.”
How the Book Relates to the Modern World:
Khaled Hosseini hauntingly captures the beauty of Aghani culture alongside the darker shades of gray of social status and hierarchy. Amir represents the human denial and avoidance of social consequences. Hosseini also ties in themes of friendship, and unconditional love. Alongside the morally “right” themes Hosseini produces, he also portrays the cruel nature of humans, dirty creatures desiring a bite of Eve’s apple, and those who pay the price for the heinous actions of others. Khaled Hosseini does not sugarcoat the reality of those privileged from the perspectives of the less fortunate and gives a raw, and utterly tangent description of the dividing factors of human relationships. While combing historical context and current global warfare, the readers are given a more authentic and realistic perspective into the humanitarian struggles of others, particularly of overshadowed cultures.
Why the Book should be Read in Schools:
Hosseini does not shy away from directly addressing the prejudice of restrictive cultures while celebrating the diversity of the world’s ethnic melting pot. He delivers a tragic, yet powerful statement on the social hierarchies of wealthier families and their impoverished counterparts. Hosseines sheds light on the often-forgotten social extremities of society, such as the stripping of youthful innocence for selfish greed. Alongside, Hosseini’s masterful craft of intertwining themes and overarching values, he used multiple literary principles of a contemporary tragedy that will teach students how to use lyrical literature whilst combining characteristics of a tragedy.
Rating:
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini does not stop short of a masterful piece of literature. Every chapter captures a new raw and intimate perspective into the book. Without a doubt, The Kite Runner is a cathartic read that will embrace humanity.
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