The Kite Runner

I don't usually read books about war and strife preferring to be entertained, but came across this book because of all the hype and thought I would give it a go. I was hooked from the beginning - it is a hauntingly good book and although it is set in troubling times it looks at the very real human problems that happen to individuals caught up in uneasy times. I listened all the way through in one day, and then went straight on to download his next book. Buy it - you certainly won't be disappointed

Catherine, angus, United Kingdom

25/03/2008

I have now listened to this book twice. I can really recommend it, it is also read brilliantly by the author himself (what a fabulous accent...). As another reviewer metioned earlier, it really gives you another insight into a different world, particularly Afghanistan, the struggles and even the prejudices among Afghanistan people themselves - even after having fled their country to live in America as refugees. There is much more to say and compliment about this book, read it and judge for yourself!

Sarah, Amsterdam, Netherlands

31/03/2007

Having read the printed version, I could not recommend this book enough, but was very disappointed in this audible version because of the narrator. He may be an excellent author, but as a reader he speaks far too quickly, sometimes garbled, and I had to really concentrate to follow him. This meant the audible version was not a relaxing experience.

Sandra, United Kingdom

22/03/2008

Despite the harrowing nature of this story, i was captivated from the very beginning. I read other reviewers mention that the author's narration was not good, but i have to disagree. It really added to the authenticity of the story, being able to hear the farsi words actually pronounced correctly. Even though the story moved through time and countries, i really felt i got a better understanding of afghan life and culture. Highly recommended!

Yogs, United Kingdom

18/04/2008

I loved 'A Thousand Splendid Suns' and preferred it to this book. Perhaps it is because the central character is flawed. Perhaps it is because we are all flawed but somehow, in a way I am finding difficult to describe, this book ended unsatisfactorily for me. See what you think. It's well worth a listen, and maybe I'll understand the messages better @ my 2nd listen.

Jessy, United Kingdom

17/09/2009

This is the most wonderful book I have ever listened to. I would happily have sat and listened in one sitting. Beautifully read by the author this enhances the story. I cannot recommend this highly enough if you only purchase 2 books this year let them be this one and A Thousand Splendid Suns by the same author.

Helen, St Julien -en- Genevois, France

13/02/2008

I really enjoyed this book, that the author himself narrates this story makes you feel like you are almost accompanying him during this tale. I was spell bound at times and found myself totally absorbed it the atmosphere of Afghanistan. By the end of it I also felt I had a much greater understanding of what life was like in late 20th C Afghanistan.

Andrew, United Kingdom

16/05/2009

This is a fantastic story, read passionately by the author which somehow lends the narration an authentic feel. The main charciter, Amir, has a fatally flawed personality, but ultimately finds redeption for both his sins, and that of the previous generation. Without giving too much away, this book has moved me to tears in public, made me breathless with anticipation and fright - you must not miss it!

Victoria, United Kingdom

05/06/2009

It would be a great shame to opt for the abridged version of this fascinating story - best to go for the unabridged reading. The narrator adds the authenticity of voice to this presentation. It's important to remember that this is a work of fiction, crafted, refined, edited and sequenced rather than a documentary or simple relay of historical facts. Interesting to pick out what is real from what is invented, however - and the start of another journey. Really enjoyed this one, the meaning comes from the events portrayal rather than in symbol - but a thrilling contemporary story, with lots of resonance in our contemporary world.

Stephen, Rowlands Gill,, United Kingdom

21/07/2008

This story is a bit too good. Be careful. If you do not cry you are not human.

Sam, southampton, United Kingdom

23/11/2008

It's a story of honour, regret and redemption; and two families divided by ethnic prejudice.

Paul, London, United Kingdom

17/05/2008

This has to be one of the most powerful books I've ever listened to. Initially I found the author's narration rather flat and understated, but after half an hour or so I was really pulled in to the story and I realised his voice is perfect for this reading. I learned about Afghanistan and the consequences of the war there but also about how the human spirit can triumph against all adversity. I was moved to tears by the powerful ending to this book... it packs a real emotional punch and leaves you thinking long after the book has ended. Highly recommended.

Julie , London, United Kingdom

07/11/2008

I could only listen to the first two hours - it was hearbreaking. I have deleted it. I am not criticising the author or reader, it was just too sad.

Elizabeth, BRIDGEND, United Kingdom

14/01/2008