During my senior year English class, I was introduced to the power of non-traditional classic books, and among them was The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini. This book left an indelible mark, staying with me vividly even after eight years. Its narrative is emotionally charged and profound, delving into heavy themes that can be triggering for some readers.
It’s been nearly a decade since I read this book, and yet I still regularly reflect back on what it taught. It does deal with rape, as well as other triggering topics, so if you plan on reading this book and discussing it with your book club, I would urge caution.
Set in 1970s Afghanistan before the Soviet invasion, The Kite Runner chronicles the life of Amir, a young Pashtun boy from Kabul, and his Hazara friend and servant, Hassan. Together, they partake in the exhilarating tradition of kite-fighting, a deeply embedded Afghan custom. Amir, longing for his father’s approval, seeks victory in the annual tournament, while Hassan’s skill as a kite runner assists Amir’s success.
However, a traumatic incident shakes their friendship when Amir witnesses Hassan being assaulted by bullies and fails to intervene, haunted by overwhelming guilt and shame. The narrative follows Amir’s quest for redemption, spanning continents from Afghanistan to the United States, where he becomes a successful writer, yet remains haunted by his past. Ultimately, Amir returns to war-torn Afghanistan under Taliban rule, aiming to rescue Hassan’s orphaned son, Sohrab.
Applying the Book
Personally, I initially struggled to grasp certain aspects of the book, such as the fervor surrounding kite fighting. It wasn’t until my time in Brazil, witnessing how kite fighting provided an escape for children living amidst tension and poverty in the favelas, that I truly began to comprehend the book’s depth.
At its core, The Kite Runner explores the themes of guilt and redemption. Hosseini’s vivid prose paints a lifelike picture of a world perhaps unfamiliar to Western readers, offering a poignant glimpse into Afghan life and culture.
This book makes for an impactful and profound read, suitable for discussion in book clubs. Its portrayal of empathy, potential for redemption, and the complexities of relationships weave a compelling narrative that stands as one of my favorite, weightier “classic” reads.
If you choose to read The Kite Runner for your book club, I’ve compiled 10 thought-provoking discussion questions that will help you and your friends to delve deeper into its rich themes and characters.
10 Book Club Questions for The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
How does the novel explore the theme of guilt and redemption through Amir’s journey? Do you think Amir achieves true redemption by the end of the book?
Discuss the relationship between Amir and Hassan. How does their friendship change over the course of the novel? What do you think is the significance of the kite running scene?
How does the novel explore the complexities of Afghan culture and history? What aspects of the book did you find most illuminating or surprising?
Discuss the relationship between Amir and his father, Baba. How does their dynamic shape Amir’s character and actions throughout the novel?
What role do women play in the book, and how do they contribute to the story’s themes and messages?
How does the book explore the impact of war and conflict on individuals and society? What scenes or passages stood out to you in this regard?
Discuss the significance of the ending of the novel. Did it surprise you, or did you see it coming? How does it reflect the book’s themes and messages?
How does the novel portray class and social status in Afghan society? How does this affect the characters and their interactions with one another?
What did you think of Hosseini’s writing style and use of language? Were there any passages or descriptions that particularly resonated with you?
How does The Kite Runner compare to other books you’ve read, both in terms of its themes and its style? Would you recommend it to others, and why or why not?
Final Bookish Thoughts:
The Kite Runner is a literary gem that resonates, not only for its storytelling but also for its ability to evoke meaningful conversations about profound human experiences.
Discover more classic books and or other book club picks and immerse yourself in their captivating narratives.
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