First published 2004
In 1970s Afghanistan, young Amir seeks to win his father's approval by triumphing in the local kite-fighting tournament. His loyal friend Hassan promises to help, but a devastating act of cowardice on that fateful day shatters their bond. As the Soviet invasion forces Amir's family to flee to America, he must one day return to confront his past and find the redemption he craves.
Genres: literary-fiction, historical-fiction, 20th-century, coming-of-age, 21st-century, family-drama
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Afghanistan, Kabul, Hazarajat, Soviet Union, Peshawar, Pakistan, America, Fremont, California, San Jose State University, San Jose
Period: 2001, 1975, 1979, 20th century
400 pages · Paperback · Riverhead Books
Content warnings: war