This evening I facilitated my book group's review of the Kite Runner (re the Afghan custom of doing battle with kites), a novel by Afghan-American writer Khaled Hosseini. Khaled, an Afghan refugee, is a physician in northern California and this is his first published novel! It's the first novel written in English by an Afghan-American writer and the read is worth every minute. I read it twice and bought the book on CD and listened to it at least three times. The story centers on familial and political life in Afghanistan, especially the relationship between fathers and sons both before, during and after the Taliban. Lies, deceits, betrayal, love, and hope are woven into the fabric but none so poignant as his lesson on how guilt can change the course of life. This book caused me to learn much about Afghanistan and Pakistan, the Taliban and Russian invasion, even just the geography of the area. I enjoy my book group gatherings always.......but even more when I enjoy the book and when Pat is serving her delicious treats.