- Author: Khaled Hosseini.
- Genre: (Fiction) Coming-of-Age, Family Drama, War Drama, Semi-autobiographical.
- Page Count: 372
- Book synopsis: Growing up in Kabul, Amir and Hassan are inseparable friends. As an adult living in California, Amir remains haunted by a childhood incident in which he betrayed Hassan’s trust. When he learns that the Taliban has murdered Hassan and wife, Amir returns to his homeland to learn the fate of the couple’s son.
- Movie Adaptation: The Kite Runner (2007).
Let me put forth a simple warning before you go any further…Inshallah this is a Masterpiece! (Or at least I think so!). If you’d want to start reading or are looking for fresh options(or rather, are tired of the common genres) this is definitely a starter!
The language/ text just flows smoothly and is really very down-to-earth. The reading is easier as it gets but what’s tough is the turmoil of emotions it takes you through throughout the experience.
Here’s how it starts (Chapter 1):
”I became what I am today at the age of twelve, on a frigid overcast day in the winter of 1975. I remember the precise moment, crouching behind a crumbling mud wall, peeking into the alley near the frozen creek. That was a long time ago, but it’s wrong what they say about the past, I’ve learned, about how you can bury it. Because the past claws its way out. Looking back now, I realize I have been peeking into that deserted alley for the last twenty-six years. ”
The depth and complexities of human relationships is highlighted and executed so well, it almost touches your soul! This book would definitely be a book you’d remember when you’re 80!
Set in Afghanistan, and then In America, Khaled manages to give the piece a pretty homely feel(you may definitely feel this once you pick the book up, especially if u live in an around the western subcontinent).
It captures the effect of war on people, and it troubles you to think what’s happening on this side of the world while you are enjoying the comforts of luxury and soft sheets.
The descriptions are non-exaggeratedly (Is that even a word?) mind-blowing.
“I can still see his tiny lowset ears and that pointed stub of a chin, a meaty appendage that looked like it was added as a mere afterthought. And the cleft lip, just left of midline, where the Chinese doll maker’s instrument may have slipped; or perhaps he had simply grown tired and careless.”
If this book doesn’t get you reading all of Khaled’s other works, I don’t know what will! (I wish he’d write more!).
The story is entirely fictional, but it involves locations Khaled has grown up in. He succeeds to give a ”real” feel to the book with his characters.
This is definitely a book I’d recommend if u want to start “reading” reading.
Also, if this book doesn’t manage to scar you, we wouldn’t make good friends (haha!).
Obviously I’d recommend reading the book first. Watching the movie is up to you! (Let me be honest, the movie is not that of a big deal [And I don’t say this because it’s a small-budget film!] ) .
Warning: Contains certain mortifying contents. The journey itself is a turmoil.
Ratings:
Critics: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
I’d rate it: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Very nice book
It is a very heart touching story about friendship between the two boys
Made me cry
LikeLiked by 2 people
Great review 👍🏼
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! More coming up! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
One of my favorite book so far. The writing literally moves you.
Great post, very well reviewed. Keep writing 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes! The writing definitely manages to reach and impact the soul! Thank You! And definitely, stay tuned for more reviews! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Would love to read your posts ☺
LikeLike
You made me want to read that book 😊👍
LikeLiked by 1 person
Haha! That’s like one of the best compliments! Thank you! Stay tuned for more! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve read this book and found it deeply disturbing. I know about some other of his books, but won’t be giving them a go in the near future ;/ Lovely review!
https://brushandneedleblog.wordpress.com/
LikeLiked by 1 person
Haha! Yes his books do scar you for life! Happy Reading! And Thank you! 🙂
LikeLike
It is a very nice cover also! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Khaled Hosseini is a great writer – I also LOVED his book A Thousand Splendid Suns – check it out: http://khaledhosseini.com/books/a-thousand-splendid-suns/synopsis/
LikeLike
Yes yes! Even And the Mountains Echoed is really heartbreaking! Both the reviews will be coming up shortly! Stay tuned:)
LikeLike
This has been on my ‘to read’ list for a while! I’m definitely gonna read it now, thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I loved The Kite Runner – great review! Found you on Harsh Reality Meet & Greet….I stick a few book reviews on my blog so am always keen to read others! Good to connect, Claire
LikeLike
Hey! Thank you! This book is my favourite so far! I will definitely check you reviews out! Thanks for the ping 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person