The Kite Runner by Kahled HosseiniIn these days of war in Iraq and Afghanistan, I have wondered what life must have been like before. Most of the war pictures are of deserts, bare mountains, bombed buildings, burning cars and screaming crowds.
This book about life in Afghanistan in the 1970s shows another side. There were neighborhoods and tree lined streets. Homes of the wealthy were adorned with gold stitched draperies, crystal chandeliers and marble floors.
Shops were open, and life was good if you were the right class and religion. If you were an ethnic Hazara, a Shi’a Muslem, you were a member of the under class. You probably lived in a hovel behind the mansion of the master you served.
The Kite Runner tells the story of two young boys, Amir jan, the wealthy Afghan, and Hassan, the servant boy, the Hazara. Ali and his son, Hassan, lived behind the master’s house. Hassan was born with a hare lip, and an operation was paid for by Baba, Amir’s father. The two boys grew up together and were inseparable.
An important event in town was the annual kite flying contest. It was a centuries old Afghan custom. There were strict rules regarding the kites and how they should be made and flown. After the contest, the kites were cut loose. Children ran after them, and a prize was awarded to the swiftest who managed to find the best kite. Once you put your hand to a kite, it was yours. No one could take it away. It was not just a rule, it was a custom and a metaphor for the Afghan people.
The coveted prize was the last fallen kite of the winter tournament. It was displayed on mantles and was a trophy of honor. Hassan was the best kite runner. One day, Hassan was cornered by a gang, molested and dishonored.
He was never the same. Neither was Amir jan, who knew. The theme of the suffering and humiliation of the Hazara people is carried through the book.
One night, Baba and Amir jan have to flee the country. The Soviets had over run the country, and Baba and Amir jan traveled to Freemont, Cal. where Baba had a job at a gas station. To supplement their income, the two men went through trash to collect items to sell at the Afghan flea markets. Ashe men begin life in America, they learn about the Taliban gaining control in Afghanistan. Amir jan knows the Hazaras are doomed.
Amir jan decides he has to go back to his home country to see if he can find his friend, Hassan. His journey into the war zone is horrific. All is not lost, though, for he finds a priceless treasure to take back to America.
The book is a beautifully written, gripping account of a doomed friendship, family loyalties and tragedy in Afghanistan. The book highlights the fact that childhood choices can remain with us throughout our lives.
When I completed the novel, I felt I understood a little better the complex social and religious issues that dominate Afghanistan and consequently, our country as well.
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Marianne Moates is a free lance writer who lives in Sylacauga. Her book reviews appear on Tuesdays.
