Creative Background

The Kite Runner is a novel by Afghan-American author Khaled Hosseini, published in 2003. It is his first novel, and it became an international bestseller, earning critical acclaim for its poignant and powerful storytelling.

The novel is set against the backdrop of Afghanistan's turbulent history, spanning from the fall of the monarchy, through the Soviet invasion, the exodus of refugees to Pakistan and the United States, to the rise of the Taliban regime. Hosseini drew inspiration from his own experiences and the history of his homeland to create a story that is both personal and universal.

Hosseini has mentioned in interviews that the idea for The Kite Runner came to him in 1999 when he learned that the Taliban had banned kite flying in Afghanistan, a popular pastime he remembered fondly from his childhood. He began to write a short story about two boys who fly kites in Kabul, which eventually grew into a full-length novel.

The novel explores themes of friendship, betrayal, redemption, and the complex nature of father-son relationships. It is also a powerful examination of the human capacity for kindness and cruelty, and the impact of political and social upheaval on individual lives.

The Kite Runner has been praised for its vivid portrayal of Afghan culture and history, as well as its emotional depth and storytelling. It has been translated into numerous languages and adapted into a film and a stage play, further cementing its status as a significant work of contemporary literature.