Book: The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

I was meant to read happy-go-lucky books for the rest of the year but had forgotten I’d reserved this at the library. So here goes.

In case you’re one of the few people who haven’t read this international bestseller, it’s the story of Amir, the son of a wealthy and charitable man in Afghanistan whose mum died giving birth to him.

His best friend Hassan is his dad’s servant’s well-loved son. He is from, I guess a different cast although this is not explained. We learn of the prejudice he faces and yet loyally does all his chores with a smile. Hassan will do anything for Amir, his best friend who he loves like a brother.

I recently found myself diving into The Kite Runner, a novel I had reserved at the library but had forgotten about. Despite intending to read lighthearted books, I found myself engrossed in this international bestseller.

The story revolves around Amir, the son of a wealthy and charitable man in Afghanistan, who lost his mother during childbirth. Amir's closest friend is Hassan, the beloved son of his father's servant, who faces prejudice due to his different social caste. Nevertheless, Hassan remains loyal to Amir and performs his duties with a smile.

Even after a tragic event changes their relationship, Hassan continues to work tirelessly around the house, preparing breakfast for Amir and doing his chores. Although he never goes to school and remains illiterate, Amir reads to him, dreaming of becoming a writer.

I’ve realised through reading The Kite Runner how many sad books I've read are about looking for a parent's love. For love, read approval. It seems autobiographical, like many first novels.

Despite being a novel, I’ve learnt so much about Afghanistan, something I particularly wanted to do given recent events.

Also because I adore the Kite restaurant in Rotterdam, the first Afghan food I’ve eaten.

Mission accomplished.

The Kite Runner is everything they said: heartbreaking and so well written.