According to the author, "The Kite Runner" is basically a father-son story. Even in his later works, he uses this subject matter.

Although the author explores several themes in the novel, guilt and redemption come out as the most significant themes.

An act of violence, rape, is committed against Amir's best friends Hassan, but Amir is not able to prevent it. The second half of the book focuses on the attempts made by Amir to atone for his failure to do something for Hassan. He sets out on a quest and eventually rescues Hassan's son after about twenty years.

Literature Help: The Kite Runner
Copyright
Chapter One: Introduction
Chapter Two: Plot Overview
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Chapter Three: Characters
Chapter Four: Complete Summary
Chapter Five: Critical Analysis