Questions about Characters
- Do you think that the flaws in Baba’s and Amir’s characters are the outcome of their actions, or are they innate?
- What do you think Amir’s actions toward Hassan reveal about his character? How about the way he perceives his relationship with Baba?
- What can be said about Baba, based on the loyalty shown to him by Ali and Rahim Khan?
- What role does jealousy play in Amir’s life and decision-making?
- How big of an impact do you feel Rahim Khan really had on Amir?
- Do you think simply rescuing and adopting Sohrab is enough for Amir to fully redeem himself, at least in his own eyes?
- How true is the statement, “Like father, like son,” for Baba and Amir?
Questions about Symbols
- What is the significance of the various physical deformities that are illustrated in the novel (e.g., Hassan’s cleft lip, Farid’s missing fingers and toes, the scar on Amir’s face)?
- What do kite-fighting and kite-running represent in The Kite Runner and why are they so important?
- What is the significance of rape in the novel and which characters does it impact the most?
Questions about Guilt
- Why do you think Amir carries the weight of Hassan’s rape throughout his whole life?
- Is guilt the only reason that Baba does charitable work, like building the orphanage, giving money to his friends in need, etc.?
- What constitutes redemption in the novel? Is it possible for Amir and Baba to fully atone for their actions?
Questions about Relationships
- Why is Amir so afraid to be Hassan’s true friend?
- Do you think Amir feel threatened by Hassan?
- In what ways does Amir try to strengthen his relationship with Baba?
- How does Amir’s relationship with Hassan mirror Baba’s relationship with Ali? Are Baba’s and Amir’s betrayals and similarities in their relationships with their servants similar or different?
- How does Baba try to connect with, and be there for, Hassan throughout the novel?
Danny Burke ’19