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The Kite Runner: A Portrait of the Epic Film
With more than 120 photos in full color and the complete screenplay, the story behind the making of the movie based on the beloved bestselling novel directed by Marc Forster ( Monster's Ball, Finding Neverland , and Stranger Than Fiction ).
Based on one of the most acclaimed novels in recent memory, The Kite Runner is a profoundly emotional tale of friendship, family, devastating mistakes, and redeeming love. In a divided country on the verge of war, two childhood friends, Amirand Hassan, are about to be torn apart forever. One boy's fearful act of betrayal will mark their lives forever and set in motion an epic quest for redemption. Now, after 20 years of living in America, Amir returns to a perilous Afghanistan under the Taliban's iron-fisted rule to face the secrets that still haunt him and take one last daring chance to set things right. This universal human story speaks to anyone who has every yearned for a second chance to make a change and find forgiveness.
This beautifully designed pictorial book includes the complete screenplay, highlighted by exquisite color photographs, behind-the-scenes stories about the production, the locations (the western Chinese desert that borders Afghanistan), the casting of the globally diverse cast and crew, and commentaries by novelist Khaled Hosseini and director Marc Forster.
Based on one of the most acclaimed novels in recent memory, The Kite Runner is a profoundly emotional tale of friendship, family, devastating mistakes, and redeeming love. In a divided country on the verge of war, two childhood friends, Amirand Hassan, are about to be torn apart forever. One boy's fearful act of betrayal will mark their lives forever and set in motion an epic quest for redemption. Now, after 20 years of living in America, Amir returns to a perilous Afghanistan under the Taliban's iron-fisted rule to face the secrets that still haunt him and take one last daring chance to set things right. This universal human story speaks to anyone who has every yearned for a second chance to make a change and find forgiveness.
This beautifully designed pictorial book includes the complete screenplay, highlighted by exquisite color photographs, behind-the-scenes stories about the production, the locations (the western Chinese desert that borders Afghanistan), the casting of the globally diverse cast and crew, and commentaries by novelist Khaled Hosseini and director Marc Forster.
144 pages, Paperback
First published January 22, 2008
137 people are currently reading
5055 people want to read
About the author
David Benioff
19 books2,077 followersDavid Benioff worked as a nightclub bouncer in San Francisco, a radio DJ in Wyoming and an English teacher/wrestling coach in Brooklyn before selling his first novel, The 25th Hour, in 2000.
He later wrote the screenplay for Spike Lee’s adaptation of 25th Hour starring Edward Norton and Phillip Seymour Hoffman. In 2005, Viking Press published Benioff’s collection of short stories, When the Nines Roll Over.
Benioff’s screenwriting credits include Troy (2004), directed by Wolfgang Petersen, and Stay (2005), directed by Marc Forster, The Kite Runner (2007). Jim Sheridan produced Benioff’s screenplay Brothers, and Hugh Jackman reprised his role as the clawed mutant in Benioff’s Wolverine. He is also screenwriter and executive producer of Game of Thrones, HBO's adaptation of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series of novels.
Viking published his most recent novel, City of Thieves, in May 2008.
Benioff is married to actress Amanda Peet; the couple has three children.
He later wrote the screenplay for Spike Lee’s adaptation of 25th Hour starring Edward Norton and Phillip Seymour Hoffman. In 2005, Viking Press published Benioff’s collection of short stories, When the Nines Roll Over.
Benioff’s screenwriting credits include Troy (2004), directed by Wolfgang Petersen, and Stay (2005), directed by Marc Forster, The Kite Runner (2007). Jim Sheridan produced Benioff’s screenplay Brothers, and Hugh Jackman reprised his role as the clawed mutant in Benioff’s Wolverine. He is also screenwriter and executive producer of Game of Thrones, HBO's adaptation of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series of novels.
Viking published his most recent novel, City of Thieves, in May 2008.
Benioff is married to actress Amanda Peet; the couple has three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews
December 24, 2011
this my first time reading a novel in English..
i starrted today, ddnt stop until i reached chapter 6..
i dont know why i started it in such busy time with studying..
i think am in luv with it..
may b i can prove my english by starting to read english novels.. i mean written in english coz this novel is in Afghanistan..
until know, i liked the little details describing the places and space. also, showing the real emotional feelings in the childhood relation between hassan and amir.
to be cont.
:)
i starrted today, ddnt stop until i reached chapter 6..
i dont know why i started it in such busy time with studying..
i think am in luv with it..
may b i can prove my english by starting to read english novels.. i mean written in english coz this novel is in Afghanistan..
until know, i liked the little details describing the places and space. also, showing the real emotional feelings in the childhood relation between hassan and amir.
to be cont.
:)
April 22, 2024
Read this book with bahasa Indonesia need a little bit adaptation in the begginning(My english is bad actually). Buku ini sebenarnya tidak banyak membahas nilai luhur di awal bab hingga pertengahan, dan muncul pada bab-bab akhir, itu membuat buku ini mendapat bintang 4(First, i think 3 stars is enough).
I love a book which brings good values, which can take a reader to be good person. This book can take a reader to it but in the long way. We have to be patient to know what Amir can do with all his problem.
Buku ini banyak menyajikan sejarah Afganistan di masa silam. Itu cukup membuat saya berimajinasi seandainya saya dalam keadaan tersebut.
Buku ini memang bagus untuk para dewasa, dan sebagian remaja. Karena membawa pesan agar berperilaku apa adanya, jujur, dan sesuai dengan kenyataan meski itu menyakitkan. Juga jangan lupa untuk memaafkan diri dan orang lain.
I love a book which brings good values, which can take a reader to be good person. This book can take a reader to it but in the long way. We have to be patient to know what Amir can do with all his problem.
Buku ini banyak menyajikan sejarah Afganistan di masa silam. Itu cukup membuat saya berimajinasi seandainya saya dalam keadaan tersebut.
Buku ini memang bagus untuk para dewasa, dan sebagian remaja. Karena membawa pesan agar berperilaku apa adanya, jujur, dan sesuai dengan kenyataan meski itu menyakitkan. Juga jangan lupa untuk memaafkan diri dan orang lain.
December 18, 2012
The Kite Runner is a book about two boys. Amir's father is wealthy merchant. Hassan is Amir's servant. Although Hassan is servant of Amir, they were bestfriend to each other. One triumphant day, Amir wins the local tournament and Hassan was good kite runner for Amir. Amir was looking for Hassan becuase Hassan was late. Amir saw that Hassan got sexual violence by his friends but Amir didn't save Hassan because Amir was very scared. Because Amir got sense of guilt, he made Hassan could not come back to home. Many years later, Amir heard that Hassan and Amir are real brother, Amir felt so sorry to Hassan. Amir tried to adapt Hassan's son because Hassan's son got serious trouble but if Amir adapt him, he can alive. Amir was playing kite wiht Hassan's son and Amir was following kite of Hassan's son. The story end like this.
I didn't like this book and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. I know this book has alot means, but i really don't like this book. In this book, there were alot of cruel scene such as sexual violence. I didn't get good moral from this book, so I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
I didn't like this book and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. I know this book has alot means, but i really don't like this book. In this book, there were alot of cruel scene such as sexual violence. I didn't get good moral from this book, so I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
April 28, 2020
Must read! I was so impressed with the book that I am eager to read his next book 'Thousand Splendid Suns'.. The story is set in Afghanistan between 1974 and 2001, mostly covering life of a boy named Aamir, his relations with his father and only friend Hassan.. at the same time it helps you understand what implications it made to the lives of the people who once knew their country as an independent one..
July 24, 2024
Disappointing...
May 22, 2025
Hassan 💔 why people like him, soft hearted and kind people have to suffer the most? He deserved so much better. I love him.
Tbh I didn’t expected that scene.
I have a love hate relationship with Amir,I start hating Amir from that chapter, i cursed him for not saving his Friend and running like a coward but okay fine, he was a child, didn’t know what to do then and acted like any other kid would have acted.
I hated him when he accused Hassan for thievery.
Like that bastard ignored every thing Hassan did for him.
I had a feeling that he really didn’t wanted to take Hassan’s son with him. Like I don’t think he loved him or felt pitied for him. It felt like he wanted to cover his doings by taking him to his place. It’s like he didn’t had any options but to take his son with him.
I don’t know if my feelings are right but never-mind.
May those people rot in Hell for hurting children physically and mentally.
God is great.
Tbh I didn’t expected that scene.
I have a love hate relationship with Amir,I start hating Amir from that chapter, i cursed him for not saving his Friend and running like a coward but okay fine, he was a child, didn’t know what to do then and acted like any other kid would have acted.
I hated him when he accused Hassan for thievery.
Like that bastard ignored every thing Hassan did for him.
I had a feeling that he really didn’t wanted to take Hassan’s son with him. Like I don’t think he loved him or felt pitied for him. It felt like he wanted to cover his doings by taking him to his place. It’s like he didn’t had any options but to take his son with him.
I don’t know if my feelings are right but never-mind.
May those people rot in Hell for hurting children physically and mentally.
God is great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2025
I'm teaching this in my AP Lit class. Holy cow. It deserves a rereading. Something magical happens when you reread.
July 17, 2018
I had seen the book cover before I read the book. Few years ago, there was a movie with the same title and cover as the book. I wondered about so I decided to read it.
The Kite Runner is about Amir, a boy who was born in a rich family in Afghanistan. They have a young servant named Hassan whom he likes to befriend. But because of their different status, he cannot make friends with Hassan. Hassan can do everything for Amir; he is a brave and sincere servant. One time, when some bullies bothered Amir and Hassan, Hassan showed his slingshot skills to avoid danger. In Afghanistan, kite fighting is the most famous game. Amir wants to win in kite fighting because he wants to gain his father's love and recognition. He finally wins with Hassan's help. Hassan runs to the direction where the cut kite has fallen. Getting the last cut kite is the glory that everyone envies. Hassan does not go back to Amir for a long time, so the latter begins searching for the former. By accident, he sees Hassan being sexually assaulted by the village bully named Assef. Amir is so scared, he cannot dash to Hassan to save him. He just hides in the back and watches that scene. Because of that incident, Amir keeps feeling guilty so he makes Hassan into a thief and drives him and his father out of his house.
After the Soviet army invades Afghanistan, Amir and his father escape to the United States. He marries Soraya whom he met in the flea market. His father dies of cancer long before his son's marriage. Amir becomes a successful novelist. After his phone conversation with his late father's long-time friend, Rahim Khan, Amir goes to Pakistan to meet Rahim. Rahim Khan tells him the surprising truths about Hassan. Hassan is Amir's stepbrother from a different mother. After driving him out of their house, Hassan gets married with a baby whom they named Sohrab. Now Sohrab is an orphan because Hassan and his wife has been executed by Taliban. So Amir decides to go to Afghanistan and finds Sohrab trying to expiate his sins. However, with a twist of fate, Sohrab is being taken care of Assef, a member of Taliban. When Amir visits Sohrab, Assef mercilessly clubs Amir. Amir and Sohrab haul the club from Assef, and Sohrab shoots Assef's eyes with his father's slingshot. Amir promises Sohrab to take him to the United States and that the latter does not need to go to the orphanage again. But because Sohrab needs visa to go to the United States, Amir is obliged to put Sohrab in an orphanage for a while. When Amir tells Sohrab about this , Sohrab tries to commit suicide in the bathroom. Luckily, he didn't die. He goes to the United States with Amir but he does not speak and becomes expressionless. Once Sohrab sees kite fighting, his eyes become filled with emotions and Amir goes to catch the last cut kite just like what Hassan did for him in the past.
This work shows the tragedy of Afghanistan and the humanity of Hassan. Khaled Hosseini, the author of The Kite Runner, also comes from Afghanistan and lives in the United States like the protagonist in the story, Amir. He has asked the people to be concerned to Afghanistan's women. I thought that if I lived in the same environment as his, would I be similar to him? I think my answer would be "No".
"For you, a thousand times over", I was impressed by the part when Amir finally realizes Hassan's mind and practices it. At first, Hassan always protects Amir even if Amir does something wrong to him. With those scenes, I analyzed myself and I realized that I am a person who is very similar to Amir and not Hassan. Just like Amir, I want to be like Hassan and embrace my people.
The Kite Runner is about Amir, a boy who was born in a rich family in Afghanistan. They have a young servant named Hassan whom he likes to befriend. But because of their different status, he cannot make friends with Hassan. Hassan can do everything for Amir; he is a brave and sincere servant. One time, when some bullies bothered Amir and Hassan, Hassan showed his slingshot skills to avoid danger. In Afghanistan, kite fighting is the most famous game. Amir wants to win in kite fighting because he wants to gain his father's love and recognition. He finally wins with Hassan's help. Hassan runs to the direction where the cut kite has fallen. Getting the last cut kite is the glory that everyone envies. Hassan does not go back to Amir for a long time, so the latter begins searching for the former. By accident, he sees Hassan being sexually assaulted by the village bully named Assef. Amir is so scared, he cannot dash to Hassan to save him. He just hides in the back and watches that scene. Because of that incident, Amir keeps feeling guilty so he makes Hassan into a thief and drives him and his father out of his house.
After the Soviet army invades Afghanistan, Amir and his father escape to the United States. He marries Soraya whom he met in the flea market. His father dies of cancer long before his son's marriage. Amir becomes a successful novelist. After his phone conversation with his late father's long-time friend, Rahim Khan, Amir goes to Pakistan to meet Rahim. Rahim Khan tells him the surprising truths about Hassan. Hassan is Amir's stepbrother from a different mother. After driving him out of their house, Hassan gets married with a baby whom they named Sohrab. Now Sohrab is an orphan because Hassan and his wife has been executed by Taliban. So Amir decides to go to Afghanistan and finds Sohrab trying to expiate his sins. However, with a twist of fate, Sohrab is being taken care of Assef, a member of Taliban. When Amir visits Sohrab, Assef mercilessly clubs Amir. Amir and Sohrab haul the club from Assef, and Sohrab shoots Assef's eyes with his father's slingshot. Amir promises Sohrab to take him to the United States and that the latter does not need to go to the orphanage again. But because Sohrab needs visa to go to the United States, Amir is obliged to put Sohrab in an orphanage for a while. When Amir tells Sohrab about this , Sohrab tries to commit suicide in the bathroom. Luckily, he didn't die. He goes to the United States with Amir but he does not speak and becomes expressionless. Once Sohrab sees kite fighting, his eyes become filled with emotions and Amir goes to catch the last cut kite just like what Hassan did for him in the past.
This work shows the tragedy of Afghanistan and the humanity of Hassan. Khaled Hosseini, the author of The Kite Runner, also comes from Afghanistan and lives in the United States like the protagonist in the story, Amir. He has asked the people to be concerned to Afghanistan's women. I thought that if I lived in the same environment as his, would I be similar to him? I think my answer would be "No".
"For you, a thousand times over", I was impressed by the part when Amir finally realizes Hassan's mind and practices it. At first, Hassan always protects Amir even if Amir does something wrong to him. With those scenes, I analyzed myself and I realized that I am a person who is very similar to Amir and not Hassan. Just like Amir, I want to be like Hassan and embrace my people.
September 24, 2013
The story happened in Afghanistan. It's a story about Amir and his friend Hassan, who was very loyal to him. Hassan was Ali's son who was servant in Amir's house. The book was basically talking about the life of two boys. Hassan was a natural runner. He ran the kite for Amir and he was beaten and raped by Assef when he tried to protect the kite. Amir was too afraid to help him. After that he made his father fire Ali. Soviet Union attacked Afghanistan so Amir and his father moved to California. Amir became a writer when he grew up. He married an Afghanistan wife. One day he got a called from his father's friend in his hometown. It was about his loyal friend, Hassan. He went on his journey of redemption.
I've read the Chinese version of this book when it first came out but then I read it the second time in English. I really like this book because it showed the friendship, good and evil, royalty , betrayal and redemption. It was very touched. This was a novel about humanity.
I would recommend this book to others because I think it is very meaningful. It worth people to read it and think hard about friendship and the royalty, betrayal, good and evil.
I've read the Chinese version of this book when it first came out but then I read it the second time in English. I really like this book because it showed the friendship, good and evil, royalty , betrayal and redemption. It was very touched. This was a novel about humanity.
I would recommend this book to others because I think it is very meaningful. It worth people to read it and think hard about friendship and the royalty, betrayal, good and evil.
Read
November 19, 2015Ben bu kitabın çevirisini okudum.Çevirisi Uçurtma Avcısı.Kitabı ilk okuduğumda ne yalan söyleyeyim pek hoşuma gitmedi.Ama ortasına doğru geldiğimde ne kadar yanıldığımın farkına vardım.Kitapta asıl olay şimdi başlıyor dedim kendime.Özellikle Hasan ile Emir'in birbirine bu kadar bağlı olması ve Hasan'ın Emir'in yaptığı bütün hataları görmemezlikten gelmesi beni çok etkiledi.Sonra ikisinin kardeş çıkması olayı ve Hasan'ın ölmesi beni hem çok şaşırttı hem de üzdü.Özellikle Emir'in yaptığı hataların farkına varıp pişman olması.Ama bunun için çok geçti.Çünkü Hasan artık yoktu.Burdan hareketle bizim de mutlaka hayatta yaptığımız hatalar olmuştur.Önemli olan çok geç olmadan o hataların farkına varıp onları düzeltmek için elimizden geleni yapmamız gerekir diye düşünüyorum.Çünkü Emir'in yaptığı hataya düşebiliriz.Kitabı okurken bir de baktım ki bitmiş.Çünkü o kadar sürükleyiciydi ki kendimi resmen olayın içine kaptırmıştım.Sizlerin de okumasını isterim.Gerçekten çok güzel bir kitap.Emin olun pişman olmayacaksınız.
November 22, 2009
Wow! This is a book that i couldn't lay down. This book has everything. It's about love, friendship, war, betrail, lies, onner, guild and relaese. It's tensive and emotional.
Just read it yourselve!
Twelve-year-old Amir is desperate to win the approval of his father and resolves to win the local kite-fighting toumament, to prove that he has the makings of a man. His loyal friend Hassan promises to help him? for he always helps Amir? but this is 1970s Afghanistan and Hassan is merely a low-caste servant who is jeered at in the street, although Amir still feels jealous of his natural courage and the place he holds in his father's heart. But neither of the boys could foresee what would happen to Hassan on the afternoon of the tournament, which was to shatter their lives. After the Russians invade and the family is forced to flee to America, Amir realises that one day he must return, to find the one thing that his new world cannot grant him: redemption.
Just read it yourselve!
Twelve-year-old Amir is desperate to win the approval of his father and resolves to win the local kite-fighting toumament, to prove that he has the makings of a man. His loyal friend Hassan promises to help him? for he always helps Amir? but this is 1970s Afghanistan and Hassan is merely a low-caste servant who is jeered at in the street, although Amir still feels jealous of his natural courage and the place he holds in his father's heart. But neither of the boys could foresee what would happen to Hassan on the afternoon of the tournament, which was to shatter their lives. After the Russians invade and the family is forced to flee to America, Amir realises that one day he must return, to find the one thing that his new world cannot grant him: redemption.
November 18, 2009
A touching novel about friendship, fraternity, and betrayal. Amir and Hassan were always together, they were just like two peas in a pod. Soo much days they spent together, including chasing the kite. But one day, Amir became a coward since he decided to run when Hassan was in a danger. For several years, Amir had forgot about that accident until it came back again and disturbed his mind. So let’s see how Amir could pay his guiltiness to Hasan by reading this supernovel !!!
Hmmm…When you’re reading this, better you’re in lonely situation in order to get the mood..
Hmmm…When you’re reading this, better you’re in lonely situation in order to get the mood..
January 12, 2011
A story about faith, hope, courage, loyalty, love, secrets, war, peace, and most of all friendship & brotherhood.
I loved every chapter of it. The tragedy, the little things in it made me thirsty for more. And my favorite quote is "for you a thousand times over."
My favorite character's Hassan needless to say, and Amir wasn't bad after all.
The author's way of telling the story was perfect, a must read book.
I loved every chapter of it. The tragedy, the little things in it made me thirsty for more. And my favorite quote is "for you a thousand times over."
My favorite character's Hassan needless to say, and Amir wasn't bad after all.
The author's way of telling the story was perfect, a must read book.
September 19, 2008
Berbeda dari teman2 yg lain..
aku ternyata ga banyak menangis waktu membaca buku ini.
Yg ada malah pikiranku melayang2..menggugat...mengajukan banyak pertanyaan..
apa iya taliban itu sebusuk itu..
kenapa antara sunni dan syiah harus selalu seperti itu..
kenapa..dan kenapa..
mungkin karena banyaknya pertanyaan..
aku kurang merasa sentuhannya
kurang merasakan kekuatannya :(
aku ternyata ga banyak menangis waktu membaca buku ini.
Yg ada malah pikiranku melayang2..menggugat...mengajukan banyak pertanyaan..
apa iya taliban itu sebusuk itu..
kenapa antara sunni dan syiah harus selalu seperti itu..
kenapa..dan kenapa..
mungkin karena banyaknya pertanyaan..
aku kurang merasa sentuhannya
kurang merasakan kekuatannya :(
Want to read
February 2, 2009Remind me the story of "Children of Heaven".
This is the perfect book telling about friendship in faith.
Learning the braveness, learning about friendship..
My tears go down, they miss Heaven.
Subhanallah..
This is the perfect book telling about friendship in faith.
Learning the braveness, learning about friendship..
My tears go down, they miss Heaven.
Subhanallah..
October 20, 2015
This is the most emotionally effective book i have ever read really touches deep into your feelings.
I don't think anyone can beat hosseini's writing style definately going to remember this book forever i loved the way hosseini describes the war through a kid's eyes
I don't think anyone can beat hosseini's writing style definately going to remember this book forever i loved the way hosseini describes the war through a kid's eyes
October 9, 2009
Gripping, very candid...great characters.
July 15, 2023
Read this book in high school and it left such an impact of me as it was my first book dealing with heavy topics.
May 24, 2023
"The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini is an emotionally charged and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships, redemption, and the devastating consequences of betrayal. With a richly crafted narrative and well-developed characters, Hosseini masterfully captures the readers' hearts and takes them on a gripping journey through Afghanistan's turbulent history.
Set against the backdrop of pre-Soviet invasion Afghanistan and later the Taliban regime, the story follows the life of Amir, the privileged son of a wealthy Kabul businessman. The novel begins with a powerful and defining event: a kite-flying tournament that showcases both the beauty and brutality of Amir's world. This event serves as a metaphorical thread that binds the characters and themes throughout the book.
Hosseini's prose is vivid and evocative, painting a vivid picture of both the grandeur and devastation of Kabul. Through his elegant storytelling, he weaves a tale of friendship, guilt, and redemption that explores universal themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love. The author's ability to blend personal and political narratives seamlessly is commendable, as he humanizes the conflicts and tragedies of Afghanistan's history, making them relatable and deeply affecting.
Central to the novel is the complex relationship between Amir and his servant and closest friend, Hassan. Their bond is tested by societal prejudices, jealousy, and a pivotal moment of betrayal that haunts Amir throughout his life. Hosseini skillfully portrays their connection with tenderness and authenticity, illustrating the complexities of friendship and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in the face of adversity.
Amidst the political turmoil and personal struggles, "The Kite Runner" explores the universal desire for redemption and the lengths one is willing to go to find forgiveness and self-atonement. Amir's journey from guilt and remorse to redemption is beautifully portrayed, and readers are compelled to reflect on their own actions and the consequences they may have on others.
Furthermore, the secondary characters in the novel are just as compelling as the main protagonists. Rahim Khan, a trusted family friend, provides guidance and wisdom, while Assef, a menacing childhood acquaintance, represents the depths of human cruelty. Each character serves a purpose in highlighting the complexities of Afghan society and the profound impact of personal choices.
"The Kite Runner" is not without its flaws. Some readers may find certain events and themes distressing or unsettling. However, it is precisely these uncomfortable moments that provoke contemplation and allow for a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and the harsh realities they face.
In conclusion, "The Kite Runner" is an extraordinary novel that combines history, friendship, and the quest for redemption into a profoundly moving and enlightening tale. Khaled Hosseini's exquisite storytelling and his ability to evoke strong emotions make this book an unforgettable read. It serves as a testament to the power of literature in shedding light on the human condition and reminding us of the enduring strength of the human spirit. "The Kite Runner" is a literary masterpiece that will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.
Set against the backdrop of pre-Soviet invasion Afghanistan and later the Taliban regime, the story follows the life of Amir, the privileged son of a wealthy Kabul businessman. The novel begins with a powerful and defining event: a kite-flying tournament that showcases both the beauty and brutality of Amir's world. This event serves as a metaphorical thread that binds the characters and themes throughout the book.
Hosseini's prose is vivid and evocative, painting a vivid picture of both the grandeur and devastation of Kabul. Through his elegant storytelling, he weaves a tale of friendship, guilt, and redemption that explores universal themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love. The author's ability to blend personal and political narratives seamlessly is commendable, as he humanizes the conflicts and tragedies of Afghanistan's history, making them relatable and deeply affecting.
Central to the novel is the complex relationship between Amir and his servant and closest friend, Hassan. Their bond is tested by societal prejudices, jealousy, and a pivotal moment of betrayal that haunts Amir throughout his life. Hosseini skillfully portrays their connection with tenderness and authenticity, illustrating the complexities of friendship and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in the face of adversity.
Amidst the political turmoil and personal struggles, "The Kite Runner" explores the universal desire for redemption and the lengths one is willing to go to find forgiveness and self-atonement. Amir's journey from guilt and remorse to redemption is beautifully portrayed, and readers are compelled to reflect on their own actions and the consequences they may have on others.
Furthermore, the secondary characters in the novel are just as compelling as the main protagonists. Rahim Khan, a trusted family friend, provides guidance and wisdom, while Assef, a menacing childhood acquaintance, represents the depths of human cruelty. Each character serves a purpose in highlighting the complexities of Afghan society and the profound impact of personal choices.
"The Kite Runner" is not without its flaws. Some readers may find certain events and themes distressing or unsettling. However, it is precisely these uncomfortable moments that provoke contemplation and allow for a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and the harsh realities they face.
In conclusion, "The Kite Runner" is an extraordinary novel that combines history, friendship, and the quest for redemption into a profoundly moving and enlightening tale. Khaled Hosseini's exquisite storytelling and his ability to evoke strong emotions make this book an unforgettable read. It serves as a testament to the power of literature in shedding light on the human condition and reminding us of the enduring strength of the human spirit. "The Kite Runner" is a literary masterpiece that will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.
January 29, 2023
Kite Runner. Khaled Hosseini. Berliani M. Nugrahani. Qanita
9786024021290
Bagi Baba, dosa terbesar adalah mencuri. Jika seseorang berbohong, artinya ia telah mencuri hak orang lain untuk menerima kebenaran. Jika seseorang membunuh, itu berarti ia telah mencuri kehidupan orang yang dibunuhnya. Nasihat-nasihat Baba inilah yang selalu diingat oleh Amir. Sementara bagi Amir, prestasi terbesarnya adalah ketika ia mendapatkan perhatian dari Baba, ayahnya. Sayangnya, bagaimanapun ia bersikap, perhatian dan cinta Baba justru lebih condong diberikan kepada Hassan, anak seorang pelayan Hazara.
Sebagai seorang anak dari saudagar kaya, Amir memiliki semua hal yang diinginkan. Berbeda dengan Hassan yang memiliki banyak kekurangan. Namun demikian, keberadaan Hassan di sisi Amir selalu menjadi tameng penyelamat bagi Amir. Keberanian, kesetiaan, dan jiwa besar Hassan yang berbibir sumbing ini, membuat Baba selalu bangga kepadanya, meskipun ia adalah seorang Hazara.
Membaca novel ini membuatku merasa sesak berkali-kali. Betapa penulis sukses menghadirkan sebuah suasana dengan latar tempat dan waktu yang membuat pembaca seolah berada dalam situasi tersebut. Jika kamu bertanya, tema apa yang diangkat dalam novel ini, terus terang, aku menemukan begitu banyak tema dan sudut pandang yang mampu ditawarkan dalam novel ini.
Tema kemanusiaan dan "parenting" tentu menjadi salah satu fokus yang dapat dibahas. Dari segi sudut pandang, pembaca menemukan “angle” sejarah, demografi, sosial, politik, agama, geografi, suku, budaya, psikologi, linguistik, dan mungkin masih ada sudut pandang lain yang tidak tertangkap olehku.
Berlatar waktu sejak sebelum invansi tentara Rusia di Afhgannistan, dilanjutkan dengan kehadiran Taliban yang mengakibatkan perang saudara, hingga masa kejadian pemboman Menara WTC di Amerika, turut mewarnai novel ini. Sejarah sosial politik pemisahan antara Suni dan Syiah sangat kental terasa. Bagiku, novel karya Khaled Hosseini ini adalah sebuah karya yang sangat kaya dan mencerdaskan. Sebuah karya yang seharusnya dapat memberikan banyak pencerahan bagi tiap generasi yang membacanya
9786024021290
Bagi Baba, dosa terbesar adalah mencuri. Jika seseorang berbohong, artinya ia telah mencuri hak orang lain untuk menerima kebenaran. Jika seseorang membunuh, itu berarti ia telah mencuri kehidupan orang yang dibunuhnya. Nasihat-nasihat Baba inilah yang selalu diingat oleh Amir. Sementara bagi Amir, prestasi terbesarnya adalah ketika ia mendapatkan perhatian dari Baba, ayahnya. Sayangnya, bagaimanapun ia bersikap, perhatian dan cinta Baba justru lebih condong diberikan kepada Hassan, anak seorang pelayan Hazara.
Sebagai seorang anak dari saudagar kaya, Amir memiliki semua hal yang diinginkan. Berbeda dengan Hassan yang memiliki banyak kekurangan. Namun demikian, keberadaan Hassan di sisi Amir selalu menjadi tameng penyelamat bagi Amir. Keberanian, kesetiaan, dan jiwa besar Hassan yang berbibir sumbing ini, membuat Baba selalu bangga kepadanya, meskipun ia adalah seorang Hazara.
Membaca novel ini membuatku merasa sesak berkali-kali. Betapa penulis sukses menghadirkan sebuah suasana dengan latar tempat dan waktu yang membuat pembaca seolah berada dalam situasi tersebut. Jika kamu bertanya, tema apa yang diangkat dalam novel ini, terus terang, aku menemukan begitu banyak tema dan sudut pandang yang mampu ditawarkan dalam novel ini.
Tema kemanusiaan dan "parenting" tentu menjadi salah satu fokus yang dapat dibahas. Dari segi sudut pandang, pembaca menemukan “angle” sejarah, demografi, sosial, politik, agama, geografi, suku, budaya, psikologi, linguistik, dan mungkin masih ada sudut pandang lain yang tidak tertangkap olehku.
Berlatar waktu sejak sebelum invansi tentara Rusia di Afhgannistan, dilanjutkan dengan kehadiran Taliban yang mengakibatkan perang saudara, hingga masa kejadian pemboman Menara WTC di Amerika, turut mewarnai novel ini. Sejarah sosial politik pemisahan antara Suni dan Syiah sangat kental terasa. Bagiku, novel karya Khaled Hosseini ini adalah sebuah karya yang sangat kaya dan mencerdaskan. Sebuah karya yang seharusnya dapat memberikan banyak pencerahan bagi tiap generasi yang membacanya
October 24, 2024
I am shook!
I have to be honest with you all but this is the best book I have ever read . this book right here was somewhat a non fiction book but for me it was as real as anything could ever be. The way Khaled hosseini wrote this book is so beautiful that I am finding it difficult to describe it in words. When I started reading it in my school library I was just enthralled by it and imagined myself as if I am in Afghanistan and seeing the life of the people with my own eyes. The way he describes the events in this book is so magical and I can feel myself living all those moments. The bond between hassan and amir is so special that even when hassan knew that amir saw him getting tortured that day and not do anything he still loved him and cared for him without thinking about himself. When I got to know that hassan was no more I was shook, I was reading this book sitting on the sofa with my family and when the line came ("shot him in the back of his head") I became numb and ran to the bathroom to cry my eyes out. I was so so connected to the characters of this book that I was affected by them in my real life as well. I would also like to share about the bond between amir and his abba, although his father was less expressive and amir thought he didn't love him and was angry at him for stealing his wife from him but still the things that his father did for him showed how strong thier bond was even if they did not put it into words. When abba died amir was shook and missed him but soraya was there to help him through his tough times and they were everything to each other. Hossieni not only showed us the story of a family getting affected by the afgan wars but also made us realise how grateful we should be to be living happily with our loved ones. I was very broken hearted when I read that soraya couldn't be a mother and amir couldn't be a father but still they went through that difficult phase together. When rahim Khan his second father called him amir was feeling overwhelmed and when he showed him the picture of hassan with his son sohrab with his begum farzana I felt so happy that finally hassan got what he deserved, the part that broke me the most was when in his childhood hassan was forced to serve drinks to assif and his friends. The kite tournament was so beautifully written and it showed the special bond between hassan and amir that even if the did not speak they knew what was going in other's mind and were there for each other, they were brothers they said their first words together, tooks their first steps together and fed from the same breast, I was satisfied that hassan could meet his mother sanaubar before leaving and sanaubar could meet his grandson and do all the things with him that she missed doing with hassan. Ali's death also broke a part of me because even if he had polio he treated amir as his own son and his abba and his own brother and was faithful to them till his last breath and that too was reflected in hassan even during his last breath he tried to protect the family house where they both grew up together, where they went on hikes together, where there was the wall of ailing corn and where he read hassan "shahnamah". I was broken when the first baby girl of hassan was found lifeless when she came out of her mother's womb but still she came back as sourabh and still will be the part of their lives and now in the end I would like to say that this book changed me a lot and I have to be honest I don't think I will forget it ever. Thank you to khaled hosseini for writing this magical piece that shook me from inside...
"FOR YOU A THOUSAND TIMES OVER" ❤
I have to be honest with you all but this is the best book I have ever read . this book right here was somewhat a non fiction book but for me it was as real as anything could ever be. The way Khaled hosseini wrote this book is so beautiful that I am finding it difficult to describe it in words. When I started reading it in my school library I was just enthralled by it and imagined myself as if I am in Afghanistan and seeing the life of the people with my own eyes. The way he describes the events in this book is so magical and I can feel myself living all those moments. The bond between hassan and amir is so special that even when hassan knew that amir saw him getting tortured that day and not do anything he still loved him and cared for him without thinking about himself. When I got to know that hassan was no more I was shook, I was reading this book sitting on the sofa with my family and when the line came ("shot him in the back of his head") I became numb and ran to the bathroom to cry my eyes out. I was so so connected to the characters of this book that I was affected by them in my real life as well. I would also like to share about the bond between amir and his abba, although his father was less expressive and amir thought he didn't love him and was angry at him for stealing his wife from him but still the things that his father did for him showed how strong thier bond was even if they did not put it into words. When abba died amir was shook and missed him but soraya was there to help him through his tough times and they were everything to each other. Hossieni not only showed us the story of a family getting affected by the afgan wars but also made us realise how grateful we should be to be living happily with our loved ones. I was very broken hearted when I read that soraya couldn't be a mother and amir couldn't be a father but still they went through that difficult phase together. When rahim Khan his second father called him amir was feeling overwhelmed and when he showed him the picture of hassan with his son sohrab with his begum farzana I felt so happy that finally hassan got what he deserved, the part that broke me the most was when in his childhood hassan was forced to serve drinks to assif and his friends. The kite tournament was so beautifully written and it showed the special bond between hassan and amir that even if the did not speak they knew what was going in other's mind and were there for each other, they were brothers they said their first words together, tooks their first steps together and fed from the same breast, I was satisfied that hassan could meet his mother sanaubar before leaving and sanaubar could meet his grandson and do all the things with him that she missed doing with hassan. Ali's death also broke a part of me because even if he had polio he treated amir as his own son and his abba and his own brother and was faithful to them till his last breath and that too was reflected in hassan even during his last breath he tried to protect the family house where they both grew up together, where they went on hikes together, where there was the wall of ailing corn and where he read hassan "shahnamah". I was broken when the first baby girl of hassan was found lifeless when she came out of her mother's womb but still she came back as sourabh and still will be the part of their lives and now in the end I would like to say that this book changed me a lot and I have to be honest I don't think I will forget it ever. Thank you to khaled hosseini for writing this magical piece that shook me from inside...
"FOR YOU A THOUSAND TIMES OVER" ❤
November 4, 2019
#qotd: Have you read this book??
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" There is a way to be good again"
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**Book Review***
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The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
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Story, set in 1970s in Afghanistan and later in America is about the lives of two young boys reflecting love, greed, jealousy honour, guilt, fear and redemption they shared.
Generally, I really don't prefer reading books on child abuse or childhood trauma, but this book which included all the above things had much more to give. I have 100 % loved the narration by the author, no frills..no extravagances just the hard brutal reality about what Afghanistan faced 30 years back.
"Most of those people, he said, were either dead or in refugee camps in Pakistan. " And sometimes the dead are luckier", he said.
I consider book was more about the personnel struggles and the guilt of not overcoming those hardships and expectations.
" But I had driven Hassan and Ali out of the house. Was it too far- fetched to imagine that things might have turned out differently if I hadn't?" Amir thought.
I admired how Khalied has asserted the fact about childhood, that it's so unfair to judge children on the basis of their behaviour and choices they make.
Rahim Khan laughed. "Children aren't colouring books. You don't get to fill them with your favourite colours."
When I read Malala's book I always wondered about Afghanistan and Swat Valley but this book has clearly given me the wisdom about the magnificence of the neighbourhood before the turmoil. I thoroughly enjoyed the book but due to its painful and violent content, I might not re-read this again.
.
.
And I surely believe that life always comes in a circle, that there is always an opportunity to be good again.
.
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I retain just one complaint, why was the climax so outsized??
.
.
.
.
" There is a way to be good again"
.
.
**Book Review***
.
.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
.
.
Story, set in 1970s in Afghanistan and later in America is about the lives of two young boys reflecting love, greed, jealousy honour, guilt, fear and redemption they shared.
Generally, I really don't prefer reading books on child abuse or childhood trauma, but this book which included all the above things had much more to give. I have 100 % loved the narration by the author, no frills..no extravagances just the hard brutal reality about what Afghanistan faced 30 years back.
"Most of those people, he said, were either dead or in refugee camps in Pakistan. " And sometimes the dead are luckier", he said.
I consider book was more about the personnel struggles and the guilt of not overcoming those hardships and expectations.
" But I had driven Hassan and Ali out of the house. Was it too far- fetched to imagine that things might have turned out differently if I hadn't?" Amir thought.
I admired how Khalied has asserted the fact about childhood, that it's so unfair to judge children on the basis of their behaviour and choices they make.
Rahim Khan laughed. "Children aren't colouring books. You don't get to fill them with your favourite colours."
When I read Malala's book I always wondered about Afghanistan and Swat Valley but this book has clearly given me the wisdom about the magnificence of the neighbourhood before the turmoil. I thoroughly enjoyed the book but due to its painful and violent content, I might not re-read this again.
.
.
And I surely believe that life always comes in a circle, that there is always an opportunity to be good again.
.
.
I retain just one complaint, why was the climax so outsized??
.
.
September 24, 2024
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is typically listed as literary fiction, but for me, it belongs equally in the realm of historical fiction, given its setting in 1970s Afghanistan. From the very beginning, I was struck by the beauty of Hosseini's writing. Even though the subject matter is often difficult, his prose is so eloquent that it feels like you're being gently guided through the story, no matter how painful or raw it gets.
What really captivated me was the relationship between Amir and Hassan. Hosseini's descriptions brought their world to life in a way that made me feel as if I was standing right beside them. You can almost feel the tension, the guilt, the jealousy, and above all, the deep friendship that threads through their lives. Every emotion seems to leap off the page, and I found myself becoming completely absorbed in their story.
This isn’t a book to rush through. I found myself savouring it like my favourite dessert, enjoying it piece by piece, page by page. The themes of lost friendship, guilt, and redemption really resonated with me, especially set against the backdrop of such a turbulent time in Afghanistan’s history.
As I kept reading, I noticed a steady build-up of anticipation. Each chapter felt like it was raising the stakes, drawing me in deeper and deeper. I couldn’t stop myself from turning the pages faster, eager to see what was coming next. By the end, I was so emotionally invested that I felt as though I’d been on the journey with Amir and Hassan.
The Kite Runner left me deeply moved. Hosseini has a way of crafting stories that stick with you long after you’ve turned the final page. For me, this was a gripping, heart-wrenching read that I won’t soon forget.
What really captivated me was the relationship between Amir and Hassan. Hosseini's descriptions brought their world to life in a way that made me feel as if I was standing right beside them. You can almost feel the tension, the guilt, the jealousy, and above all, the deep friendship that threads through their lives. Every emotion seems to leap off the page, and I found myself becoming completely absorbed in their story.
This isn’t a book to rush through. I found myself savouring it like my favourite dessert, enjoying it piece by piece, page by page. The themes of lost friendship, guilt, and redemption really resonated with me, especially set against the backdrop of such a turbulent time in Afghanistan’s history.
As I kept reading, I noticed a steady build-up of anticipation. Each chapter felt like it was raising the stakes, drawing me in deeper and deeper. I couldn’t stop myself from turning the pages faster, eager to see what was coming next. By the end, I was so emotionally invested that I felt as though I’d been on the journey with Amir and Hassan.
The Kite Runner left me deeply moved. Hosseini has a way of crafting stories that stick with you long after you’ve turned the final page. For me, this was a gripping, heart-wrenching read that I won’t soon forget.
July 31, 2020
“For you a thousand times over “
The kite runner is written by Khaled Hosseini. The story is about guilt, friendship, relationship between father and son , forgiveness , and betrayal.
Amir and Hassan have grown together and they became friends . Hassan is very loyal to him and he always stands by Amir whenever he’s in problems. But Amir failed to make a Stand for Hassan when he was raped ,which hunted Amir for his whole life . Amir is always craved for his father love . He wanted to make a bond with his father . So he was so hard on himself to impress his father.
Then Amir and his father flew to the USA. After his dead , Rahim khan made him come to his native where he get to know what happened to Hassan . Hassan death is totally heartbroken . Amir decided to help his child Sourabh to rectify his previous mistake .
Sourabh part will make you cry. at this tiny age , he fed up with his life will make you heart break . I was crying for the Sourabh more than Hassan .
Finally when Amir repeat those words “ for you a thousand times over “ to Sourabh is given me a peace . This book is full of life . This book will definitely make you cry .
The kite runner is written by Khaled Hosseini. The story is about guilt, friendship, relationship between father and son , forgiveness , and betrayal.
Amir and Hassan have grown together and they became friends . Hassan is very loyal to him and he always stands by Amir whenever he’s in problems. But Amir failed to make a Stand for Hassan when he was raped ,which hunted Amir for his whole life . Amir is always craved for his father love . He wanted to make a bond with his father . So he was so hard on himself to impress his father.
Then Amir and his father flew to the USA. After his dead , Rahim khan made him come to his native where he get to know what happened to Hassan . Hassan death is totally heartbroken . Amir decided to help his child Sourabh to rectify his previous mistake .
Sourabh part will make you cry. at this tiny age , he fed up with his life will make you heart break . I was crying for the Sourabh more than Hassan .
Finally when Amir repeat those words “ for you a thousand times over “ to Sourabh is given me a peace . This book is full of life . This book will definitely make you cry .
April 7, 2022
Catatan: Aku membaca versi terjemahan ke Bahasa Indonesia.
• buku ini mengandung banyak trigger warning seperti pembantaian hingga pelecehan seksual terhadap anak dibawah umur.
• ceritanya berlatar belakang perang Soviet - Afghanistan dan perang Afghanistan (taliban)
• bagian awal terasa biasa saja, semakin kebelakang terasa kelam.
• sejujurnya pada saat membaca buku ini terutama bagian bab pertengahan sampai terakhir membuatku tercekat hingga berhenti sejenak, karena sangking shock dan sedihnya.
• meski ini hanya fiksi, aku berharap sohrab bisa bahagia dan menerima kehidupannya saat ini.
• buku ini mengandung banyak trigger warning seperti pembantaian hingga pelecehan seksual terhadap anak dibawah umur.
• ceritanya berlatar belakang perang Soviet - Afghanistan dan perang Afghanistan (taliban)
• bagian awal terasa biasa saja, semakin kebelakang terasa kelam.
• sejujurnya pada saat membaca buku ini terutama bagian bab pertengahan sampai terakhir membuatku tercekat hingga berhenti sejenak, karena sangking shock dan sedihnya.
• meski ini hanya fiksi, aku berharap sohrab bisa bahagia dan menerima kehidupannya saat ini.
November 2, 2022
[The Kite Runner]...tells that the forces of violence still dominate in some/every corner of the world today,it's likely to be noticed but it starts within a human's soul stained by too much fear of bein unaccepted,the cravings for love or hunger for greed and all form of darkness there is...if only it could be counteracted with love and compassion,perhaps there will be no more Amir and Hassan today,who both have a different metric of tragic and yet a redeeming story of betrayal and salvation to tell. 📖🤍
March 13, 2025
I think this book really did something to me, I hate how I weeped and how I literally was feeling like I want to go in in that book and weep Infront of all the characters I loved Hassan so much and the way I felt Amir was something beyond my expectations. Khaled Hosseini Ill not forgive you to make me feel this way by just writing one book. I thought that thousand splendid Suns was the one but nah it is this one that made me feel everything all at once there was no page in this book which made me feel happy none. My lore just increased by reading this book
October 2, 2025
While I do think it was an interesting book, it didn't really "catch" me. I was never really interested to keep reading and only finished it for the sake of finishing this very well rated novel. I did like the protagonist's inner conflict, I love it when the protagonist acts against the reader's moral intuition.
In general this very average rating is not because of the book, it's just not really my taste. I want to feel emotionally involved in a story instead of having this very documentary-style biography.
In general this very average rating is not because of the book, it's just not really my taste. I want to feel emotionally involved in a story instead of having this very documentary-style biography.
August 15, 2017
الرواية موجعة موجعة موجعة. ولكن على كمية الوجع يكمن جمالها
هي من الروايات التي علقت بذاكرتي. وتعلقت الاحداث أكثر في ذكراتي ٌ وعندما شاهدتٌ الفيلم يحمل نفس عنوان الرواية ويجسد احدثها
ومازلت اتتذوق طعمها رائع كلما رايتٌ أطفال يلعبون بالطائرة الورقية يأخذني الخيال إلى شخصيات الرواية فأصبغ الشخصيات بالاطفال الذين يلعبون. وأتسال أيهما يناسب شخصية الطفل أمير في الرواية وأيهما يناسب شخصيه حسان صديق أمير
هي من الروايات التي علقت بذاكرتي. وتعلقت الاحداث أكثر في ذكراتي ٌ وعندما شاهدتٌ الفيلم يحمل نفس عنوان الرواية ويجسد احدثها
ومازلت اتتذوق طعمها رائع كلما رايتٌ أطفال يلعبون بالطائرة الورقية يأخذني الخيال إلى شخصيات الرواية فأصبغ الشخصيات بالاطفال الذين يلعبون. وأتسال أيهما يناسب شخصية الطفل أمير في الرواية وأيهما يناسب شخصيه حسان صديق أمير
April 3, 2020
Heartbreaking.
The first of his three most famous books and arguable the saddest.
Read if and only if you're in for a good cry.
Khaled Hosseini is an author that really lets his readers wholeheartedly relate to, and BECOME his characters and feel their raw emotion in no way diluted by narrative interface.
The ending is just the right amount of bitter and just the right amount of sweet, and the last line will make you cry the hardest you've cried in the entire book.
A must read.
The first of his three most famous books and arguable the saddest.
Read if and only if you're in for a good cry.
Khaled Hosseini is an author that really lets his readers wholeheartedly relate to, and BECOME his characters and feel their raw emotion in no way diluted by narrative interface.
The ending is just the right amount of bitter and just the right amount of sweet, and the last line will make you cry the hardest you've cried in the entire book.
A must read.
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