Born and raised in Kabul, San Francisco writer Khaled Hosseini reportedly holds the distinction of being the first Afghani to produce a novel of his homeland in English. His first novel The Kite Runner brought to us a powerful tale of friendship and atonement. The protagonist, young Amir is a privileged kid, growing up in a pre-revolutionary Afghanistan amidst growing ethnic tensions between the different ethnic tribes.

   As the old way of life starts disappearing, Amir’s close friendship with Hassan, his father’s servant’s son is severely tested. Young Hasan is Amir’s only solace in a world where he feels unloved by his businessman father and his longing for his dead mother. Hasan keeps the sensitive Amir safe from the bullies in the street and always stands up for him. The cheerfully loyal Hasan is one character that will stay with you long after you close the book.

   Amir’s reluctance to stand....