As a junior in AP Literature, one of the books required for summer reading is Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner. A controversial book for many and even was almost banned in some states, I had various thoughts about this book. 

This novel follows the story of Amir, a young man growing up in Afghanistan during the rule of the Taliban while he works through struggles and traumas. I appreciated the amazing writing style of this book, and the way Hosseini dove so deeply into the mindset of Amir, portraying every character beautifully. It also brought serious awareness to the brutal realities of the suffering endured during the Taliban’s rule, which lasted from 1996 to 2001.

On that note, part of me wonders whether or not this book is appropriate for school audiences. This novel has various elements that could be very triggering for students who have gone through similar experiences. For example, it heavily deals with sexual assault, not leaving anything for the imagination. It also deals with suicide and self harm, which could be very hard to read at times, especially if it’s something you or a loved one has suffered through.

In turn, all of these elements contributed to the story, and added even more complexity to each character which is great for discussion in class. I admire this novel for all of its glory, the way it leaves tears in your eyes and your jaw dropped. The awareness it brings to the Afghani’s situation is completely necessary and should not be sugar coated, however, I’m not sure this book is appropriate for school audiences. It should be a choice to read, not something forced upon anyone with similar traumas, causing panic or making them relive that experience. Overall, I would give this book a 7 out of 10.