The #1 New York Times bestselling novel beloved by millions of readers the world over. New York Times Readers Pick: 100 Best Books of the 21st Century A vivid and engaging story that reminds us how long his people [of Afghanistan] have been struggling to triumph over the forces of violence--forces that continue to threaten them even today. -- The New York Times Book Review The unforgettable heartbreaking story of the unlikely friendship between a wealthy boy and the son of his father s servant caught in the tragic sweep of history The Kite Runner transports readers to Afghanistan at a tense and crucial moment of change and destruction. A powerful story of friendship it is also about the power of reading the price of betrayal and the possibility of redemption; and an exploration of the power of fathers over sons--their love their sacrifices their lies. Since its publication in 2003 Kite Runner has become a beloved one-of-a-kind classic of contemporary literature touching millions of readers and launching the career of one of America s most treasured writers.