A review by kaylo88
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This book is truly remarkable. It's a gripping rollercoaster of a story, and Hosseini’s wonderfully descriptive storytelling vividly brings the narrative to life.

Amir, the protagonist, is not a likeable character. Despite growing somewhat fond of him later in the story, I find his actions unforgivable. He is a coward and a terrible friend. On the other hand, Hassan is faithful and kind, and my heart broke when the unthinkable happened to him.

The book excels in depicting the stark contrast between Afghanistan before and after the invasion. Whether it offers a completely unbiased view is debatable, and I recognise that the relationship between the two community groups featured (Pashtuns and Hazaras) is more complex in reality. Nonetheless, it serves as a poignant example of the racial and religious discrimination in Afghanistan.

Overall, the story is emotive, emotional, gripping, and reflective and I am so glad I've finally read it! 
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