Book Report: The Kite Runner

I really don't even know why I decided to read it. I hadn't even heard of it until a good friend mentioned it in an email:

"Have you read The Kite Runner?"

That's all she said. No recommendation, no criticism, no plot synopsis. Just a question. I have great respect for this person's literary opinions. Probably more than my own. So her question certainly piqued my interest.

Anyway, I was ready for my next book.

I put the title in to the online library catalog, and came up with a novel by Khaled Hosseini that looked relatively new, and had already received quite a bit of recognition from such sources as The San Francisco Chronicle, Entertainment Weekly, the American Library Association, and, of course, The New York Times.

Upon starting the book, it seemed as if it would be a little slow, as the author spent quite a bit of time establishing the relationship between Amir and Hassan. I'm learning a few Farsi words, some Afghan traditions, and a little bit about the history of Afghanistan. But that's not why I keep reading.

The author builds in the foreboding tone right from the start, that holds me terrorized, as I anticipate the pending misfortune with every page turn. And when tragic events unfold, I'm driven forward still, because there are shocking decisions and outcomes throughout the book.

I'd love to say the book is so real, but that sounds phony, coming from someone who has not lived in oppression, poverty, or has survived conditions of war. I guess the reality that even I can relate to are the themes that are so beautifully and tragically played out:

• hungering for acceptance from others, especially family
• experiencing painful decisions
• holding yourself captive with regret

I finished the book in a pile of tears and snot. This book, the characters, and the affliction, have made a tremendous impression on me. I will not likely be able to forget this book. Yes, I'm an avid reader, and have read many books that I've loved, but it's not often that I have this dramatic of a reaction to a book. Like my friend, I want to ask people - even perfect strangers -

Have you read The Kite Runner?