The Kite Runner by Anthony

The Kite Runner by Anthony - April 2014 Scholarship Essay

Amir was an Afghan boy, that was the son of Baba; he was a wealthy man that was well respected throughout the country. Amir can be described as a very self-centered, careless kid. He would treat Hassan (Amir's servant) like he was nothing, but yet they both grew up together and fed from the same breast; which in Afghan culture is very significant. Amir is jealous of Hassan because he wants to become closer to his father, yet Baba is more impressed of Hassan instead of his son Amir. Even though Amir is very intelligent, he is weak and can't defend for himself. After the kite tournament, Hassan runs after the kite and is surrounded by Assef and his friends which then rape Hassan, and Amir just stands at the end of the alley and pretends he does not see it. During all his life he has flashbacks of what he could of done, and wants to be feel free from his sins. He later learns that Hassan was really his half-brother and understands why his father also provided for Hassan as much and he did for him.

I learned from Amir that I should really appreciate everything I have, such as friends and family. Throughout the novel, I also learned to help others when they need it, and not to just stand there and watch because I may regret not helping them later in life. The Kite Runner was a great novel, that not only showed me how life in Afghanistan was, but what we in the United States have that other countries don't. It let me realize that there is no trust in the United States, and that a reputation does not matter, only money. While in Afghanistan Baba was a well respected man that was known for his high remarks. And trust and respect played a huge part in their culture. This novel as well as Amir opened to my eyes to what life is outside the US, and how to value what I have.