This first novel and best seller, The Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini may not be about meditation, but it is certainly a book to meditate upon for its plethora of examples of developing personal character.

The story takes place in Afghanistan and the United States, two very different cultures and climates in many ways. Without giving the plot away we get to feel like we are part of the family beginning in its earliest days in the homeland of Afghanistan when times were okay - before the arrival and devastation wrought by the Taliban.

The Kite Runner really takes us on a run, a fast track into the intimate family life of the main character, Amir, from his early privileged life, through struggles that one may confront coming face to face with self-preservation.

I feel Mr. Hosseini's novel is a study in human nature while portraying a break in character in-depth. The outer events are just what we need to see how the human ego interferes with the development of right and true virtues. This kind of tug of war is what we all face growing up to a greater or lesser degree.

But still, we all are faced with spending our time becoming greater souls internally, or staying on the surface of life concerning ourselves more with acquiring possessions to the detriment of those around us if necessary. It is the kind of book you don't want to lay aside; it kept me on the edge of my seat hoping at each turn in events that Amir would do the 'right' thing when faced with those choices.

Life is not so easy, it is not always clear-cut how to act for the best in all situations. In this novel we get to see the results of Amir's choices and how they impact his life at the moment and later on.

If we keep in mind, that as in real life we are all interconnected in many ways, we will not be too surprised to find the author using twists and turns of connection to tell his tale. It is certainly a worthwhile read for all truth seekers and those wanting a further understanding of human nature.

Highest recommendation!

Details - 400 pages paperback; Riverhead Trade (April 27, 2004) ; 7.8 by 5.1 by 1.1 inches; ISBN-10: 1594480001 ISBN-13: 978-1594480003

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The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

Review by Susan Kramer