The book opens in Kabul just before the Soviet invasion and the rise of the Taliban. The story revolves around Amir, the young son of a rich merchant known as Baba, and his closest friend, Hassan, the impoverished son of his father’s servant Ali. Their relationship changes irrevocably the day Amir wins the local kite-running tournament, when the loyalty of both boys to each other is put to the test. Following a shocking betrayal, the two pairs of father and son part and follow different paths, one remaining in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, the other fleeing to the USA via Pakistan. As an adult, Amir returns to his homeland and is given the opportunity to attone for his previous cowardice before resuming his life with his wife in America. Some of the ghosts of his past mistakes are finally laid to rest.
I really loved this book, it stayed with me for ages after finishing and left me wanting it not to end. I have never seen the film and not sure I want to in case it is different to how I imagined it. It is quite a shockingly violent book in parts but beautifully written. I have recommend this book to a number of people and would definitely recommend it to anyone who hasn’t read it.
Not read the book, but seen the film – loved it.
Jax