Book Review
Feb. 23rd, 2006 09:32 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
kenjariThe Kite Runner
by Khaled Hosseini
This novel is a very affecting story about modern Afghanistan, childhood, betrayal, sin, guilt, and the possibility of redemption. It tells the tale of Amir and his childhood relationship with Hassan, the son of his father's servant. When they are both about 12 or 14, Amir, out of cowardice and jealousy, betrays Hassan. Amir's guilt over his choices colors much of his later life and finally impels him to take advantage of a dangerous chance at redemption offered to him.
Hosseini's writing is clear and transparent, and it is not difficult to grasp the points he is making. I think, however, that underneath the thematic transparency, the novel might also be something of a metaphor about Afghanistan and its fate. Each of the characters may thus represent an aspect of the country or a stage in its recent history.
I liked this book, yet I feel that it is a little bit overrated. Most of the reviews I read were quite lavish in their praise, and I don't think the book quite lives up to it all.
by Khaled Hosseini
This novel is a very affecting story about modern Afghanistan, childhood, betrayal, sin, guilt, and the possibility of redemption. It tells the tale of Amir and his childhood relationship with Hassan, the son of his father's servant. When they are both about 12 or 14, Amir, out of cowardice and jealousy, betrays Hassan. Amir's guilt over his choices colors much of his later life and finally impels him to take advantage of a dangerous chance at redemption offered to him.
Hosseini's writing is clear and transparent, and it is not difficult to grasp the points he is making. I think, however, that underneath the thematic transparency, the novel might also be something of a metaphor about Afghanistan and its fate. Each of the characters may thus represent an aspect of the country or a stage in its recent history.
I liked this book, yet I feel that it is a little bit overrated. Most of the reviews I read were quite lavish in their praise, and I don't think the book quite lives up to it all.
