Once you get into the story, and your reading is taking you deeper into the working out of the relationships and issues which Amir has to face, you will find that the novel explores through the narrative, a number of issues or themes which the author is investigating, or interrogating. To help you identify some of these as you are reading, here is a brief list of some of the central ideas which the book explores. Keep these in mind when you are reading, and take note of incidents or experiences which you think touch on these.
*  Identity, self-awareness, and growth of self
*  Friendship, relationship and loyalty
*  Bravery and cowardice
*  History - its impact both on individuals and on countries
*  Human rights, and the abuse of human rights
*  Refugees and resettlement - where is home?