Dear Readers:
I first want to wish you all a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2008. I hope the new year brings you all the joy, good fortune, and happiness that you wish for.
For me, 2007 was an incredibly eventful year. It saw the publication of my second novel, A Thousand Splendid Suns, back on May 22nd. Many of you have asked me in your e-mails what inspired me to write this novel, and I thought I would say a few words about that.
In some ways, I felt that this was a book that I had to write. My first novel, The Kite Runner, was dominated by men and I knew, even as I was finishing it, that I was going to write about Afghanistan again and that this time I would write about Afghan women. The struggle of Afghan women was simply too compelling, too tragic, and too important and relevant a story, and both as an Afghan and as a writer, I knew that I couldn’t resist writing about it. Then about three months after I finished editing The Kite Runner, in March of 2003, I went back to Kabul, after a twenty-seven year absence. In Kabul, I spoke to a lot of people, hotel doormen, traffic cops, vendors, waiters, people in the government, doctors, nurses, etc. I heard stories about women who had been raped, beaten, imprisoned, humiliated, women who had seen their husbands blown to pieces, seen their kids starve to death. It was then that I saw the devastating effect that anarchy and extremism had had on these women. I saw for myself, for the first time, the enormity of the suffering that these women had endured. And I came away humbled by the fight that these women had in them, by their resilience and their courage. When I sat down to write A Thousand Splendid Suns, early in 2004, I kept hearing those voices in my head, I keep seeing those faces. And so I think that to a large degree, this book was inspired by the collective hardships, struggles, by the collective hopes and dreams of those women I met and spoke to. It my tribute to a group of people who have remained strong and resilient in face of incredible hardship.
By far the most difficult aspect of writing A Thousand Splendid Suns was writing a story from the female perspective--actually two female perspectives. I worried quite a lot about getting the voice “right.” I continuously grappled with the notion that a woman inhabits a different social and emotional arena, that a woman’s experience of the world is comprised of unique perceptions and emotions, different from those of a man. I wanted to handle this deftly, and the harder I tried the more self-conscious I became about it, and the less convincing Mariam and Laila’s voices sounded to me.
The critical insight for me was to stop thinking of these characters as women per se, but to understand them as human beings, people with fears, hopes, disappointments, etc. I had to understand why Mariam went to Jalil’s house, why she lived with Rasheed and tolerated his meanness and scorn, why she became so attached to Laila and Aziza. The more I understood these things, the less self-conscious the writing became, the more able I was to get drawn out of my own skin and into that of these two women. I would liken it to an act of reverse ventriloquism. When I started, I was the ventriloquist, speaking with my voice through Mariam and Laila. But as I kept writing and understanding the core and essence of these female characters, they became the ventriloquists, speaking through me, as it were. It was a real watershed moment for me as a writer. In the end, I tried to write these women as truthfully and authentically as I could. It is my hope you, as readers, will agree.
2007 was also the year that I returned to Afghanistan, for the first time since 2003. In September, I went to Kabul and drove to various cities in northern Afghanistan with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. We visited Afghan refugees who –like some 5 million Afghans since 2002- had returned home after years of living in Iran and Pakistan. Many of them had returned home buoyed by hope and the promise of opportunity. But for most, life in Afghanistan is proving a daunting challenge. In village after village, I met families who live on bread and dirty water. Their children have no access to education, since the nearest school is often a two hour walk away. When children get diarrhea from drinking river water (roughly half of the country has no access to potable water), they must ride a donkey for hours to get to the nearest clinic. The very poor and the very young often die of exposure during the unforgiving winter months.
Unfortunately, the Afghan government is still in its teething stages and does not have as yet the capacity to absorb the millions who have returned. It is stretched to its limits trying to rebuild a country that is still recovering from nearly three decades of war, displacement, and human suffering. This means that the returning refugees have to rely on their own limited resources and the goodwill of their neighbors and families. To make matters worse, Pakistan is closing down its refugee camps and the Iranian government, burdened with illegal Afghan migrant workers, has deported more than 200,000 unregistered Afghans this year.
This visit to Afghanistan reminded me of how hopelessly dependent Afghanistan still is on the support of the international community, particularly the west. Afghanistan is at a critical juncture, beset by insurgency in the south and east, rising insecurity, and increasing narcotic trade. More than ever, Afghanistan needs help. This is an election year in the U.S., and it is my hope that the new administration will make a genuine, long-term, and comprehensive commitment to ensure the future of the coming generation in Afghanistan.
If you want to learn more about the plight of Afghan refugees, you can visit unrefugees.org.
Lastly, 2007 was also the year that the movie version of The Kite Runner was released. I am very proud of the film, not only because it is so faithful to my novel, but also because it is the first film in mainstream Hollywood cinema to focus the narrative on the Afghans themselves. For once, a film about that region of the world is not about terrorism, extremism, or political violence, but about ordinary people, about friendship, family, love, and tolerance. I hope that this film sheds a human and sympathetic light on the face of Afghanistan. I am also very proud of the actors in the film, particularly the children, who have so artfully brought to life Amir, Hassan, Baba, Rahim Khan, etc. I was tremendously proud of Ahmad Khan Mahmoodzada (who plays young Hassan) for winning the Critics Choice Award for Best Young Actor.
Finally, I am very grateful to The Kite Runner film Social Action Committee for taking steps to improve the lives of ordinary Afghans. Participant Productions and Paramount Vantage, who released the film, have partnered with various NGOs such as Afghanistan Relief Organization, Relief International, and Amnesty International to train 1,000 Afghan teachers over the next two years and to build fifty rural libraries in Afghanistan. It is very gratifying to me that the film version of The Kite Runner will have a positive impact on the lives of people in Afghanistan. To learn more about these programs, visit takepart.com and click on The Kite Runner image.
Lastly, I want to thank you, the readers, for your continuing support and encouragement. I cannot ever thank you enough. It is a thrill beyond description for me to see these books resonate with so many of you and I am always touched when you take the time to write to me. Please keep writing. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Tashakor!
Until next time,
Khaled
Comments (246)
Dear Dr. Hosseini,
I have just finished reading A Thousand Splendid Suns (I had previously read Kite Runner). I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to read these beautiful, if heartbreaking, books. Thanks to you and your family for coming to the USA and for writing these books. What can we look forward to next?
Cynthia McClelland
Posted by Cynthia McClelland | January 10, 2008 10:18 PM
Posted on January 10, 2008 22:18
Mr. Hosseini,
I just finished your book The Kite Runner. Thank you for such a moving story. I have so much respect for the character Hassan. I will always remember his loyalty and love for another. It is a story I will never forget. Thank you.
Maranda
Posted by Maranda | January 10, 2008 10:57 PM
Posted on January 10, 2008 22:57
I have to say I already read your 2 books 2 times and could read them a 3rd time . In everytime I discover somethiong new and learn more . I had tears in my eyes reading both of them . Through your writings and descriptions you are able to transmit the feelings of the charachters . I congratulate you with all my heart and hope soon to read another book written by you .
Posted by Dina Ghali | January 10, 2008 11:28 PM
Posted on January 10, 2008 23:28
Dear Mr. Hosseini:
I never felt the need to congratulate an author before, but after reading your "A Thousand Splendid Suns," I felt compelled to do so.
I am a female, born and raised in Massachusetts and every day I take for granted the basic human rights that my country allows me. My face is visible every day wherever I go, with and without makeup, I married the man I love, I work where I want, I swim in a bathing suit in mixed company, I travel with my sisters without a male escort, etc. I sing, dance, watch TV and am an avid reader. I never gave much thought about the Middle East, other than the information reported in the news, and what little history was taught in my education. Of course, after September 11, 2001, Afghanistan was in my thoughts every day, and the Taliban was a foreign reference that soon became an everyday conversation topic. Reports showing women covered from head to toe in "burquas" in the sweltering heat, confused me. Why would a woman want to dress that way? I never understood that Afghan women did not have a choice, not only with what they wore, but with almost every human right that Afghan men enjoyed.
Your book, although Fiction, offered a window into the everyday struggles of Mariam and Laila, two completely different Afghan women, who fought with their lives every day; two women who loved, hated, needed, wanted and desired the same things that I do. Two victims of an extreme religious sect, abused by a man and men who use the words in their holy books as excuses for ugly, violent, inhuman behavior.
Your book gave insight to the fact that whatever we call our higher power, his/her disposition and personality is thought to be the same -- A loving, patient, forgivable presence that only asks that we behave the same. Love one another, be patient, kind, generous, trustworthy and forgive each other for transgressions. Simple, easy to use instructions.
I hope that what most of us believe is going to be true; that when we die, and we once again are reunited with others we knew and loved, (or just knew)our Higher Power will instill in us the power of forgiveness; because we most certainly will need it when we have characters like Rasheed to contend with.
Thank you so much for writing this book. I loved every page. I am looking forward to your next masterpiece.
Warm Regards,
Cathy Cook
Posted by Cathy Cook | January 11, 2008 10:40 AM
Posted on January 11, 2008 10:40
you have done a great service for all Afghans and for Muslims by writing another beautiful book.
thank you and may Allah bless!
Posted by BoredJane | January 11, 2008 4:17 PM
Posted on January 11, 2008 16:17
Mr. hosseini, or may I call you Dr. Hosseini, since I am a dentist myself. I don't know how to thank you enough for touching my soul and enlighting my mind with the story of Amir and Hassan, just a few hours ago I finished reading The Kite Runner, and about to start with A Thousand Splendid Suns. This is the first book I read which transforms human emotions into words, never have I met something so real. I cried and smiled all through the book. As an Arab, i thank you for describing terrorism in a way that is killing nations for no cause but for destruction per se. Afghanistan will always be proud of you, because you are the one who have given You Country a beautiful drawing in which you kept alive an era of life, that I wish Afghanistan will be able to revive. It is not easy for any country who has been touched by the unmerciful sword of war to stand up right and healthy so fast. Look at Palestine, Iraq, and Lebanon,, There is no place that is happy and smiling. I hope that Afghanistan's sky will hold in its wide arms smiling and happy kites real soon,, Until then, May God help us all to conquer evil with the power of Love.
May the new year fill your life with all your heart's desires, for you and your loved ones.
Regards
Dr. Lara Haddadin
Amman- Jordan
Posted by Lara | January 11, 2008 4:48 PM
Posted on January 11, 2008 16:48
I have only just read The Kite Runner and I can honestly say that it has changed me as a person. I am so humbled and so moved and want to try harder at being a better person. I am an avid reader, but The Kite Runner is by far the best book I have ever read. It was read from cover to cover in two days, and I have the puffy eyes and tear stained face to prove it.
Thank you Khaled, you have an amazing gift and I am privileged to have been allowed a glimpse of the country you love.
Posted by Hinna Collins | January 11, 2008 6:01 PM
Posted on January 11, 2008 18:01
Thanks so much for the inspiring stories and more, for providing ideas about how to help Afghanistan. The world is a very small place when we all recognize each other as friends. That friendship is created by empathy and understanding, which I felt when I read your stories.
Posted by Kate | January 11, 2008 7:21 PM
Posted on January 11, 2008 19:21
Hello, Khaled!
I think I am the first to post a comment here. What an honor!
I'm from Brazil and I've just started reading A Thousand Splendid Suns (in English). I'm enjoying a lot. I can't stop reading...
Congratulations!
Wish you a great 2008, with many splendid sunny days...
Best wishes from São Paulo, Rosa
Posted by Rosa Maria Lopez | January 11, 2008 9:07 PM
Posted on January 11, 2008 21:07
im not sure if you ever gonna read this...but...i just want to say..you did a great job on kite runner...it was a breathtaking story...i cried in the story and all...and it made me relasie that...poeple like me that lives in a pretty well country with all the food and water we need...takes things for granted. we dont have to go though wars and stuff like that. so im really thankful for that.
im reading kite runner for school so yeah ....
im 17 this year i know you dont need to know that but yeah..=D
thank you for writing such a great and Inspiring story.
Posted by mina | January 12, 2008 9:11 AM
Posted on January 12, 2008 09:11
Dear Khaled, Thank you for writing with such an honest voice about Afghanistan and it's people- a place and people that I know very little about. For a variety of reasons I can identify with your two heroines and I cried with them and rejoiced in their little successes. These images will stay with me for a long time as I mentally travel back to your home. It is a different but same picture painted by Greg Mortenson as he too tries to have an impact on a much beleagered and forgotten land. May God be with you in your endeavors and with your countryman as they try to rise above and overcome such dreadful hardships. Nancy Carotti
Posted by Nancy V Carotti | January 12, 2008 10:57 AM
Posted on January 12, 2008 10:57
Dear Khaled,
Your book (A Thousand Splendid Suns)touched my life. I am amazed that human beings can suffer and survive. I also wanted to say your book was written so well that I started it and couldn't put it down till it was done. I just wanted to say Thank You.
Rebekah
Posted by Rebekah | January 13, 2008 11:15 AM
Posted on January 13, 2008 11:15
Dear Dr. Hosseine, I picked up your book, "a Thousand Splendid Suns" at the Costo book counter. Frankly I have never paid a lot of attention to this style of writing, but was impressed with the cover and the title. It appeared to be a book with a dialogue, so I put it in the basket.
Little did I know that I would read it in two days, given my schedule that was a first. It was not only a story of human emotion, but brilliantly portrayed with the multiple cultural issues and constraints. It does not try to find an answer to the issues of that time and place, it beautifully tells the real story on how life is, and the ability to know that the human race can accept little victories, adjust and move forward, given the enormous weight of adversity I was moved and impressed. Your novel is not a book, it is a primer for all of the people of the west that need to experience the mind of the middle east. Not necessarily the answer to the issues, but a way stop of knowing what is needed to be understood.
I just bought the Kite Runner and look forward to seeing how it compares.
Posted by tom mc nulty | January 13, 2008 2:47 PM
Posted on January 13, 2008 14:47
Dear Dr Hosseini,
Thank you and many congratulations for your great books! I am extremely pleased with myself to have picked up The Kite Runner out of my own instinct.
Reading the book has been one of the 'spookiest' experiences for me. Although my environment is slightly different, I found myself in Amir Agha; his guilt, his relationship with people around him and his emotional & spiritual journey are almost identical to mine. It felt like I was reading my own biography!
After reading the book twice and watching the movie four times (just because it takes shorter time to complete), at 34 years of age and a PhD in hand, I finally found myself and know where I am heading to in this ever precarious life. I am currently reading your second book and I am hooked to it! Any chance for you to visit London again?
May God grant you and your family the best in this world and hereafter!
Aari Hash
Malaysia/USA/UK
Posted by Aari | January 13, 2008 4:36 PM
Posted on January 13, 2008 16:36
Nay, tashakor to you for writing such a book :)
Posted by Basithah | January 14, 2008 11:50 AM
Posted on January 14, 2008 11:50
I just saw the movie The Kite Runner, and was so moved by it that I haven't been able to stop visualizing it in my mind. I read the book a couple of years ago, and felt that the movie did such a fabulous job of bringing it all to life. I loved that a large part of the movie was in the native language-it made it so realistic. Thank you for your beautiful books (A Thousand Splendid Suns is my all time favorite book) and bringing to light so much suffering in this part of the world. Hopefully the US will be able to provide some help and relief to a country that has suffered so much.
Posted by Ann Hart Hunter | January 14, 2008 1:44 PM
Posted on January 14, 2008 13:44
hi Khaled, this is Lydia from Singapore. firstly, happy new year to u. i didnt know u had this blog page and i just needed to say to you that you are my new favourite author. i loved "A Thousand Splendid Suns" and Mariam's character blew me away. I await your next book. Im currently a film student here in Singapore and if The Kite Runner was almost as accurate as the book's voice then one day when im successful enough in the film industry i would love to translate the voice or rather voices of "A Thousand Splendid Suns" onto screen. Insyaallah.. wa'salam.
Bravo Khaled! Syabas!
Posted by Cheriyan Lydia Natalia | January 14, 2008 2:35 PM
Posted on January 14, 2008 14:35
At the risk of sounding trite, thank you a thousand times for helping my conversion from a strict non fiction literary diet with The Kite Runner.
Mathew Bowden
Posted by Mathew Bowden | January 14, 2008 8:32 PM
Posted on January 14, 2008 20:32
Dr. Hosseini, I am an avid reader, and I must say, The Kite Runner is the best book I have ever read in my 39yrs of life. Based on reviews, i had an idea of what the story was aboout, but my reaction to this book was really uncanny. At the end, I closed the book, put it against my cheek and wept openly for , Amir, Hassan, Ali and Sohrab. They became a part of my being over the days I met them in your wonderfully written book. May you be safe as you continue your work with the UN.
God bless you.
Sher
Posted by Sher | January 14, 2008 8:41 PM
Posted on January 14, 2008 20:41
Dear Mr Hosseini,
I thank you very much for your books that made me understand Afghan poeople more than I did 20 years ago: I am a french women, and I worked in Afghan refugees camp in Pakistan from 1985 to 1987 whith a french NGO, Action Contre la Faim. We had dispensaries for women in th camps around Quetta and I worked as lab technician. With your books, I met again the Afghan poeple with which I had such friendly relations (even if it was not always easy to be a young occidental women in the Afghan social relation system) but especially, I now realise how unconscious I was of the suffering of the poeple, and especially the women,that I met there.
I want to congratulate you for the quality of your writing. Thank you very much.
Carole Lambert
Posted by Carole Lambert | January 15, 2008 4:57 AM
Posted on January 15, 2008 04:57
Salam Khaled Aziz!
To newisandeye bozorgi hasti wa hamaye ma (ham'watan'hayat) be ketab'haye to eftekhar mikonim. Az amaaqe qalbam barayat arzooye salamati wa mowafaqiat mikonam.
Posted by Taqi | January 15, 2008 5:57 AM
Posted on January 15, 2008 05:57
My husband, mother in law and father in law, along with myself went to see The Kite Runner four days ago. We are still discussing the impact on us and the knowledge we gleamed from the film.
I lived in Iran in the seventies when the revolution began and the Shah was exiled. Though not to the degree of Afghanistan, there was much displacement, torture, death, and extremism. Your story brought back a rush of memories about the beautifully spiritual and generous people I had known there and the culture that continues to enrich who I am today. How easy it is to forget the struggles of the world because it's 'uncomfortable' to see as we live our over-indulgent and, oft times, wasteful lives.
Your story showed a side to a people that many choose not to see. It is much easier to 'look the other way' if we think only of Taliban, terrorist, dictators. You have given them a face, a soul...no different from many of us where faith, family, and fortune are concerned.
Thank you and please continue to bring attention to the regions of the world where these horrific injustices' occur. I am going to recommend that this movie be viewed by college students, christian groups and social activists. To all that I can. We can not call ourselves a 'moral' nation and ignore these atrocities.
Kathy Rockwell
Posted by Kathy Rockwell | January 15, 2008 6:50 AM
Posted on January 15, 2008 06:50
TO KHALED HOSSEINI,
I HAVEN'T BEEN APPROVE TO SEND A MESSAGE BUT WANT TO SAY I JUST FINISHED READING YOUR BOOK FOR THE SECOND TIME. THE SECOND TIEM I LEARNED MORE, APPRECIATED THE FINE WRITNG AND THE STORY. THIS WEEK A BOOK GROUP I'M IN CHARGE OF WILL DISCUSS A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS.
I LOVED THE KIT RUNNER AND APPRECIATED THAT THE MOVIE STAYED SO CLOSE TO THE BOOK.
SINCERELY
LOIS CANNING
Posted by LOIS CANNING SALT LAKE CITY UTAH | January 15, 2008 5:15 PM
Posted on January 15, 2008 17:15
My husband and I read both of your books. To say they were brilliantly written is a complete understatement. Though I felt that "The Kite Runner" was a particularly powerful piece of writing, I was astounded at "A Thousand Splendid Suns." As you pointed out, a man writing about women often struggle to sound authentic, as does a woman writing about a man. The fact that a man wrote the book was lost in the writing. Only the pain, the suffering, the love and tenderness appeared.
We were so impressed with the movie. It was amazing to see a theatre filled with people who were so intent on the action in front of them that not a word was uttered, though tears were evident.
We looking forward to a movie of "A Thousand Splendid Suns."
We thank you for educating us about Afghanistan. Our newspapers and media are inadequate to help the American people understand the scope of the problem that confronts the people of Afghanistan. Too long have Americans been ignorant of their great fortune to have been born in a country that is free, that is democratic, that allows women to have rights and be educated. Your contribution to us all, Afghans and Americans, cannot be overstated.
Thank you for your brilliant story-telling.
Sincerely,
Kathryn van Heyningen
Posted by Kathryn van Heyningen | January 15, 2008 6:59 PM
Posted on January 15, 2008 18:59
Dear Khaled,
How fortunate I am to have read "The Kite Runner". At first glance of the heralded quotes on the front cover, I wanted no part of what I assumed was a novel written only for pop-culture America. "A Thousand Splendid Suns" was reassurance that your purpose is much more far reaching. I am an American who grew up like most in the US; with supportive family, education and sufficient resources to live comfortably. I know no other way of life.
As an adult and working professional, I have lived in several places in the US that share a common thread of homogenous culture. More recently, I have lived in Northern Virginia (Washington, D.C. metro) and Central New Jersey. Both share a wider diversity of people and cultures than most places. My friends and colleagues that I have met from the Middle East, North Africa and India have helped me view life from very different perspectives, and I am grateful.
Our country pushes for "tolerance" when addressing matters of cultural diversity. I feel a better approach would be "respect". Your books offer a window for another view of the world different than our own. Some will choose to close the window or pull the blinds, but for others it is a breath of fresh air. Thank you for sharing a part of your culture. Tashakor!
Sincerely,
Edie Klinger
Posted by Edith Klinger | January 16, 2008 1:22 AM
Posted on January 16, 2008 01:22
I have never regretted picking up The Kite Runner from my friend's bookshelf & will be moving on to A Thousand Splendid Suns.
What we do not see on media, you have provided a picturesque window through your writing. Thank you.
Posted by Sandra | January 16, 2008 8:37 AM
Posted on January 16, 2008 08:37
I recently saw the Kite Runner and it deeply touched my soul and broke my heart. I cried for Hassan and his son because i identified so much with their pain and their resilience through it all.
Not many stories stay with me the way the Kite Runner has and I cannot wait for my children to be old enough to read your books.
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the stories you so beautifully tell, for reminding us of how lucky we are, how appreciative we should be. Thank you for bringing the struggles of others to light because the fiction you write is a lot of people's reality.
Posted by Sayuri Jane | January 16, 2008 12:55 PM
Posted on January 16, 2008 12:55
Dear Dr. Hosseini.
I have read both of your books and can't express in words how much I enjoyed them. Last night I saw the The Kite Runner (movie) and am amazed at how well the story was portrayed on the big screen. My sister and I were brought to tears while reading both books, and again while watching the movie. We love Hassan and Laila and Merriam. Your writings have helped us (as Westerners) to see the humanity that exists thousands of miles away. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Peace to you.
Posted by Jennifer D | January 16, 2008 1:35 PM
Posted on January 16, 2008 13:35
Hello!
I am a library media specialist at Stanhope Elmore High School in Millbrook, Alabama. I have recently started a book club at our school. Our principal recommended that we read The Kite Runner as our first selection. It was so powerful that, at the suggestion of our county superintendent, we are beginning A Thousand Splendid Suns as our next novel. Our blog sehsbooks.blogspot.com shares some member comments about The Kite Runner. We would LOVE for you to provide feedback on our blog if your schedule allows!
Posted by Shay Atchison | January 16, 2008 2:27 PM
Posted on January 16, 2008 14:27
Dear Dr. Hosseni,
I would like to thank you for the enlightenment you have shared with me through your first two novels. Although fictional accounts they have shed light on a situation rarely discussed otherwise. Your ability to convey a feminine voice was remarkable to me, along with the way you narrated differing perspectives of the same situation through Mariam and Laila's voices. I studied Kite Runner in an undergraduate course at Seattle University and have since read A Thousand Splendid Suns in leisure, both of which have been gut-wrenching, eyeopening yet heartfelt experiences. Once again I cannot thank you enough for the time you have placed and effort put out to create these two true works of art.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Henderson
P.S. If I may ask for a reading list of works that have inspired you, or simply authors that have inspired you along your journey I would be very grateful! Thank you once again.
Posted by Jonathan Henderson | January 16, 2008 5:41 PM
Posted on January 16, 2008 17:41
Dr. Hosseini,
While at a Christmas party last month, we began talking about the Kite Runner and it was referred to as "a work of art" and another guest suggested that A Thousand Splendid Suns to him was as well. Within a week, I read both books and I am floored at the impact they have had on me. I had to continuously remind myself that both of these stories took place in my lifetime and the reality of the horrors that are happening now are REAL. What stuck with me the most was Laila's statement about how the human body can endure so much, more than she could ever imagine when she was a child running free in the streets of Kabul. The endurance of the women is real and we must never take our freedoms for granted. What struck me again was the cruelty that the Taliban inflicted on women, who were their mothers, sisters, aunts, etc. They wouldn't be here if it wasn't for a woman. You also brought your reader into the reality of a burqa,what is feels like inside...and I thought that these women actually had a choice. The media never makes reality real.
Thank you for these wonderful works of art and for making Afghanistan more real than the media ever could at every turn of the page. I am rooting for Afghanistan and for Kabul to once again be the city that "One could count the moons that shimmer on her roofs, Or the thousand splendid suns that hide behind her walls."
Posted by Linda Landry | January 16, 2008 9:19 PM
Posted on January 16, 2008 21:19
Dear Dr. Hosseini:
I too have just finished reading A Thousand Splendid Suns, in three days. There is not much more I can say that hasn't already been said; I can only nod enthusiastic agreement to all the glowing comments on this blog. I too want to thank you for writing this powerful book and tying together for me bits and pieces of events I have heard over the past 30 years.
I think you captured the voices of Mariam and Leila pefectly.
Also, I have to mention that I have been to Pakistan and have had the pleasure and privilege to be in Murree, see the Margala Hills and even drive along the Khyber Pass to the Afghan border. It lent an added dimension to the story.
Susanne
Posted by Susanne Liou | January 17, 2008 1:02 PM
Posted on January 17, 2008 13:02
Mr Hosseini
Thank you for once again creating such A beautifully writen book. I love books and although my busy life does not afford me alot of time to my self, I have to choose very wisely what books to read. Someone recommended The kite runner to me and with in three days I was done and telling everyone about the book and what A great writer you are.You have the ability to draw your readers into the lifes of these characters, by feeling their pain and hardships.It gave me an opportunity to see how both men and women live and struggle in Afghanistan. Through out the two books I was reminded of all my many Blessing big and the very small ones. I thank you for that, and look forward to you next (best seller)Novel. Thank you again.
Posted by Jill Fiedor | January 17, 2008 9:25 PM
Posted on January 17, 2008 21:25
My husband and I just saw the movie The Kite Runner and absolutely loved it. We read The Kite Runner when it came out and it became a book that we gave as a gift over and over again. It truly spoke to both of us as did A Thousand Splendid Suns. It saddens me that The Kite Runner (the movie) is only here in Augusta, GA for one week. I want to tell everyone to go out and see it. I will continue telling everyone to read the book.
Posted by Gaby Brucker | January 17, 2008 11:40 PM
Posted on January 17, 2008 23:40
Khaled Efendi, a short note of thanks for sharing 'The Kite Runner' with the world, I found it an immensely memorable and moving story.
Having just seen the film this evening, I was reminded of those moments while reading the book that I had to stop and compose myself before continuing once again.
May your stories forever be told and your travels be safe.
Caner Jun Alkan
Melbourne, Australia
Posted by Jun Alkan | January 18, 2008 8:20 AM
Posted on January 18, 2008 08:20
Dear Dr Hosseini,
I write to you with tears in my eyes and heart. I have just watched the Kite Runner and it has moved me in ways I cannot discribe. I was introduced to your wonderful work through 2 friends of mine who bought your book for me as a thank you gift. They know I don't really enjoy reading but once I open A Thousand Splendid Suns, I couldn't put it down. I was extremely sad while reading your book and I even felt depressed at times. Once I finished A Thousand Splendid Suns, I had to read The Kite Runner and once again, I found myself balling my eyes out while learning about the hardship Afghans go through. I realised that we take things for granted in life and it has really taught me a lot of lessons. I want to thank you for opening my eyes and the eyes of the world to what was previously an unseen world for many people. I was wondering if you could recommend a charity that is excellent in helping Afghan people who are in similar situations to the charaters in your books. There are a lot of charitys out there but I would like to do my bit to make a small difference. Your recommendation would be appreciated.
I have started giving people your book as a gift because I believe that there is no better gift than knowledge. I want to try and convey your message to as many people as I possibly can in the hope that they too would try and reach out to people suffering in Afghanistan and the rest of the world.
I've always wondered if parts of your books have been based on things which you have experienced so maybe you could shed some light if you not too busy with your third book :-)
Congratulations on your success and I look forward to your next book Inshallah.
Yours failthfully,
Hassan Mohamed,
Cape Town - South Africa
Posted by Hassan Mohamed | January 18, 2008 5:01 PM
Posted on January 18, 2008 17:01
I read A Thousand Splendid Suns and The Kite Runner and I simply can not read another book because A Thousand Splendid Suns was so unbelievably wonderful! I tried and I just can not get past the first page of another book. You are absolutely my favorite author and I am wondering when you are going to release your next book. Hopefully really soon...
Posted by EVA | January 18, 2008 8:11 PM
Posted on January 18, 2008 20:11
Khaled,
I hope you do not mind the first name address, it was how you ended your letter in the blog.
Wow...I have to draw a breath to gather my thoughts after finishing A Thousand Splendid Suns. In the last few months I have read Nine Parts of Desire, A Leap of Faith and Inside the Kingdom. While interesting and enlightening, none held my heart as did your novel. Isn't the power of fiction amazing? You have given me even more appreciation for women in the Middle East and for my own life of astonishing freedom. All I can do is thank you, or maybe I should thank Miriam and Laila, and even Rasheed. The tragedy of intolerance is all around us.
May peace and joy be with you, your family and all your endeavors.
Gillian Sherwood
Posted by Gillian Sherwood | January 19, 2008 12:02 AM
Posted on January 19, 2008 00:02
Limited to only a few words in this email, I want to say thank you for the incredible story (The Kite Runner) you have provided us, the readers. Just like Soraya states to the talented Amir, " I can't believe you write like this." Amazing is your portrayal of the Afghan culture as a warm & unique entity that is integrated with the tragedy of extreme political strife and complicated by unkind people in places of "power". Yet to this, you explain this story to non-Persians in a special and identifiable way that makes it easy to KNOW what the characters felt. We are all human creatures with the same capability of feelings-how perceptive of you to bring this understanding in such an emotional and RIVETING story. Although my tears and emotion have not yet settled from reading the Kite Runner, I am running out tomorrow to read A Thousand Splendid Suns....Thank you again.
Posted by Junekk | January 19, 2008 1:07 AM
Posted on January 19, 2008 01:07
Hello,dr.Hosseini,
I'm a Chinese.I felt grateful to finish reading your two novels.In fact,I was a book-lover before,but not a novel-lover.A friend told me that The Kite Runner was impressive,i read it and i felt so moved!Until August,there was a version of A Thousand Splendid Suns in China,and i found it in the library.Then it was funny that my work seemed to advice all my friends,schoolmates,families to read the novels!Most of them did.You make me begin to love novel.Thank you.
Looking foward for your next.
Take Care.
Support from China :)
Wang
Posted by Wang | January 20, 2008 12:28 AM
Posted on January 20, 2008 00:28
Dear Mr. Hosseini,
This is my first time ever writing a letter of appreciation to an author; being my first time, I am honored to have you read it. I first read your novel, The Kite Runner, as part of a curriculum for a high school Advanced Placement course. I immediately fell in love with the novel and was unable to stop reading it. The story is rich with Afghan history, emotions and realism. Words can not express how I feel about The Kite Runner; it’s eye-opening and amazing. When I heard of your second novel, I immediately went out and purchased it in hope of reading another success. As I thought, A Thousand Splendid Suns exceeded my expectations. Both novels are remarkable and for this I thank you! I will continue to tell others about these novels and I will fall back in love with them by reading them again. I look forward to reading your next novel.
God Bless,
Darnell Hassan Stith
Posted by D. H. Stith | January 20, 2008 1:56 AM
Posted on January 20, 2008 01:56
Khaled - you are excellent writor, i and my wife both enjoyed ur 1st novel and always discuses various aspects of it --well done and carry on!
Posted by freemarket | January 20, 2008 8:33 AM
Posted on January 20, 2008 08:33
Dear Dr.Hosseini,
Mashallah, Just a small note to Thank You for sharing your story "The Kite Runner", You have succeeded what the BBC/CNN failed to potray, your book has left a mark and I am definently going for the thousand splendid suns..All the very best keep up the good work.
Best Wishes to your family.
Shahnawaz
London, UK
Posted by Shahnawaz | January 20, 2008 9:25 AM
Posted on January 20, 2008 09:25
Dr. Khaled Hosseini,
I have just finished "A Thousand Splendid Suns". Though suffering is not a total stranger to me (being from India, unlike others here who are mostly from the West), I was moved by the amount of endurance shown by Mariam and Laila. For the smallest of moments, the simple life of Laila with her children and Tariq in Pakistan seemed like heaven after reading of her sufferings. The relentless pursuit of career success in a nation like India (where more than a billion people struggle to make a living) seemed so ... so trifling.
After reading the book, I read up a lot about the Taliban and the suffering of the Afgans. This is truly a tragedy of mammoth proportions. Thank you for letting the rest of the world know.
Finally, after reading about several incidents of cruelty by Taliban, I couldn't help but feel that there is some similarity between the the life of Mariam and the life of Zarmina - who was executed for allegedly killing her husband (though several reports say that it was her daughter who killed him and hence she accepted the blame to save her). Did such real life incidents inspire you to write the book?
Regards,
Sachin
Mumbai, India.
Posted by Sachin | January 20, 2008 9:33 AM
Posted on January 20, 2008 09:33
Hello Mr Hosseini
I just finished reading your second book A thousand Splendid suns. I read it in Spanish, the Kite Runner in French.
Both books truly spoke to me and I keep on recommending them over and over again.
The way you make us feel the pain and the difficulties of the woman in Afghanistan and the magnific way you describe friendship, regret and true love are incredible. It has been a real pleasure to read your books
Just wanted to tell you congratulations.
Carmen
Posted by Carmen Perrino Redondo | January 20, 2008 3:38 PM
Posted on January 20, 2008 15:38
Salam Dr saheb Khaled !
Awelter az hame man mekhwaham yak Jahan tashkori i shuma konam!
Ne metwanam ba kudam herf terif wa ihteram ba rye tan abraz bedaram!
Man ketabe awele shuma ra på NORWIGE (norsk) khandum wa me khwaham edame bedeham ba ketabe nawe ham.
Man yeak prjicgt der maktab daram. mekhwahm ba arte bat shuma yak prjigct benavisem!
I am praud of you!
Posted by Sediq Zazai | January 20, 2008 4:28 PM
Posted on January 20, 2008 16:28
“The Kite Runner” an awesome book, great attention to details. Every single page made me cry, laugh, warmed up my heart with love, and made me angry… I cried non-stop throughout the book.
Posted by The Kite Runner Cliff Notes | January 20, 2008 8:41 PM
Posted on January 20, 2008 20:41
I don't even know where to start. I saw the movie "kite Runner" yesterday and I can't describe in words the emotions that went through me. I was crying, I was laughing, I was angry and I was excited at the same time . It's about time that somebody stands up and portrays the hypocrity behind the fanatic religious beliefs. Being a Muslim myself, I want to sincerely and deeply thank you for your honorable work. No movie has ever impacted my life as much as "kite Runner" did. Choukran Gazilan.
Posted by Ahmed Bramli | January 21, 2008 9:53 PM
Posted on January 21, 2008 21:53
Dear Mr Hosseini,
I have never written to an author after reading one of their books, I have thought about it but never went through with it. But after reading "A Thousand Splendid Suns" I was compelled to tell you (or anyone that would listen) that it is by far one of the best books I have ever read. You reduced a 34 year old Scottish man to tears at the end of this novel, with the sound of laughter coming from his wife!
So I thank you for this beautiful book and look forward to reading more of your work.
Best wishes from Scotland
Posted by craig | January 22, 2008 3:12 PM
Posted on January 22, 2008 15:12
Dear Mr. Hosseini,
I just finish reading the Kite Runner, wow!, what an amazing book, it touch me so much,it made me feel anger, passion, sadness, it made me realize than in life there is always a second chance to redeem ourselves.
Also reading your book, I learned a lot about Afghanistan, and the culture. Thank you for that!
The book inspire me so much, I am looking forward to read another one of your great books!!
Maria
Posted by Maria Alborz | January 22, 2008 3:34 PM
Posted on January 22, 2008 15:34
Dear Khaled,
I just completed reading your book "A Thousand Splendid Suns". This was the first book I read of yours and to say the least...I was completely blown away.
I read the book cover to cover in 14 hrs. I am a Business Technology Analyst and travel every week. Today happened to be the worst travel day for me with canceled flights, delays, re-routing etc. I however, hardly noticed any of it.
The book moved me deeply. I loved the way you mixed fictional characters with the history of Afghanistan. I was empowered by the resilience, strength and patience of Afghan women. I have so much more to say but am at a loss of words.
I look forward to reading "The Kite Runner" and watching the movie.
Awaiting your next masterpiece.
Mehul
Posted by Mehul Patel | January 23, 2008 12:36 AM
Posted on January 23, 2008 00:36
Dear Dr. Hosseini,
I just finished reading "The Kite Runner" and want to congratulate you on your remarkable work of art. This book did what no other book has ever done before- touched the depth of my soul in unimaginable ways.
I come from a nationality where persecution, wars and 'ethnic cleansing' haunts the very nature of our history. I am an Armenian.
I am thankful I had the opportunity to read "The Kite Runner" and anxiously await to start reading "A Thousand Splendid Suns".
Again, I thank you for writing such an inspiring story that has touched the lives of people all over the world. Our race, ethnicity, gender, and religion might be very different, but our hearts work the same way. Your book has touched my heart and moved my soul. Thank You.
Posted by Anonymous | January 23, 2008 12:37 AM
Posted on January 23, 2008 00:37
Dear Mister Khosseiny,
I finished your book yesterday. I cried, for Mariam, Leila and those millions of women who suffer in the world. We all know that those too many women suffer of the violence of their husband, and in countries like India also of their stepmother. Its awful, but what can we say when above all this, they also have to suffer from war, from loosing their children, their parents, their friends? How can they survive?
I read a few years ago Yasmina Khadra, it coul be translated by (sorry I'm french, my english is not so good)"The Kaboul's swallows", may be you read it, and as with your book, I received a slap.
I am very conscious of being a french women, free, leaving in peace, with a wonderful partner. But I feel guilty not to do anything, not te be useful to the people who live the horror daily.
Yesterday I cried for Mariam, Laila, and the others. I probably cried for me, for my uselessness.
It'stour second book, I read your first one three years ago. I'm waiting for the next one. Thank you for oppening our eyes and our minds.
Regards
Posted by Karine Hoarau | January 23, 2008 10:50 AM
Posted on January 23, 2008 10:50
Dear Mr. Hosseini,
Both books of yours have moved me beyond anything I have ever read. I carry a heavy heart for months after your books. A thousand Splendid Suns brought the plight of women to the American people.
I have had the opportunity to meet women from several middle east countries. Some have orthodox parents and live very restricted lives. Others have allowed their children more american privledges and they seem happy.
Thank you for telling these poignant stories of life in Afganistan. I sincerely pray people find their way to freedom, peace and safety we all take for granted here in the USA.
Tell us how the little boy from the Kite Runner is doing, I think of him often.
God bless you and your family.
Posted by Pam Cusanelli | January 23, 2008 11:47 AM
Posted on January 23, 2008 11:47
Just finished reading "The Kite Runner" too. The Afghan culture seems to have several similarities with the Indian culture a few decades ago - the kite flying, the family honour, differential treatment of people (hazaras in Afghanistan and caste system in India) etc. I hope that someday Afghanistan too achieves the economic and scientific progress that India has achieved.
Waiting for your third novel ...
Sachin.
Posted by Sachin | January 23, 2008 2:37 PM
Posted on January 23, 2008 14:37
Dear Dr. Hosseini
I start with the greetings of peace and may the mercy of God be upon you and your loved ones. I literally just finished reading your second novel, and finished your first one last week. I haven't sat down and read a book since before I had my two kids...and to read them with two little ones at my feet was an accomplishment in and of itself.
I must commend you on your books, as has every one else on this blog. After reading both of them, I have understood the terrible plight of the Afghani people so much better. It makes me sad to say that only now I understood it, because I too am Muslim, born in America of Indian origin. I realize how much we all, regardless of our race or religion, take things for granted. Since yesterday, I have been making extra thanks to God for all that He has given me.
I sincerely pray that you continue to touch more lives as you already have...and I sincerely pray that God help and give ease to every human being on this earth that is suffering. Your books have inspired me, and I hope that one day I can inspire people too and help make this world a better place for others, like you try to do.
Thank you, shukran jazeelan, bhoth bhoth shukriya
Fatima
Posted by Fatima | January 23, 2008 10:32 PM
Posted on January 23, 2008 22:32
Dear Mr. Hosseini,
I was reading your first novel in 48 hours and I finished it an hour ago. What a book!
I am a Romanian writer with a few books published.I lived under the communim for 30 years and it was terrible.
Now, I am here in the splendid California. You are an inspiration for me to open my past .
Thank you!
Posted by Rodica | January 24, 2008 4:35 PM
Posted on January 24, 2008 16:35
Dear Mr. Hosseini,
I am half way through "Kite Runner" and cannot put it down. I am very touched by your writing and am so happy to finally read a book worth reading. My husband spent a year in Afghanistan in 2006. He spent time in Kabul and brought back jewelry and bowls made of lapis. He showed me the many pictures he took which has often left me wondering what it would be like to visit. He says "No" to that idea. He didn't tell me too much about his time there but he did tell me I wouldn't have the same standard of living there as I have here in the U.S. Still I find myself fascinated by Afghanistan. Anyway, thankyou for writing this book so that I may have a peak at what life is life there. I am going to see the movie next week with my friend from Norway. She read your book printed in Norwegian. I can't wait to read "A Thousand Splendid Suns".
Posted by Beth Koons | January 24, 2008 11:59 PM
Posted on January 24, 2008 23:59
Dear Dr. Hosseini, I have just finished reading a Thousand Splendid Suns. I like many of your readers feel that your gifted storytelling has changed my life and made me grateful for everyday that I live and breathe, work and play in a country that allows me such fundamental freedoms. I have an adopted sister Mahnaz who came from Iran nearly 25 yrs ago. She carried with her similiar sorrows as she literally had to escape her country with her young son Nima. She is my angel. She has brought so many blessings to my life and continues to take care of me better than my own siblings. I couldn't help but see her in Mariam. Her stories of her youth reflected the hopes and dreams of Laila as well. I read your comment about your fear of writing in the feminine voice. I can't help but saying that the eternal feminine resides within you and can we expect to hear that voice again. Your books (I have read both), speak of the poetry of the middle east. The ancient and the contemporary are woven together like a prayer. I am reminded of the great poet Khalil Gibran when I read your books. I hope to read many more. Blessings, Peggy DuPont
Posted by Peggy DuPont | January 25, 2008 8:38 AM
Posted on January 25, 2008 08:38