Finally 4

At this point in the novel (through chapter 20), several issues and themes on life have been portrayed and explored. Of the following, which theme (themes) would you consider to be most important/most explored? Explain why, citing evidence from the text itself. 1. Role of books, literacy        2. Friendship, guilt, & redemption        3. Relationship between Fathers & Sons         4. Coming of Age (becoming an adult/"man")         5. Resiliency of the human spirit                     6. Man's inhumanity towards man 7. Discrimination, prejudice, bigotry, class structure   

As you get through chapter 16, what are your thoughts on Amir's struggle with his own guilt at this point in the novel? Has America changed Amir? How? How has your opinion changed about him since he was a boy in Kabul? Do you think he can go and "be good again?"

At the end of chapter 7, Amir witnesses the attack and rape of Hassan after Hassan has run down the final kite of the tournament for Amir. Why doesn't Amir step in or help? What is he thinking as he witnesses this? How does he "justify" or rationalize his decision not to help Hassan? Discuss your opinion of Amir's actions. and consider, honestly, what YOU would have done.

Discuss your initial thoughts on Amir, our narrator, so far in the story. Describe him as a young boy. In addition, discuss how he views his father and how he views and treats Hassan?

In less than 5 months, as far as the great State of Iowa is concerned, you are officially on your own and an adult. The big conveyor belt of public education is dropping you off the line and turning around with another group on its way. No more teachers on your case to do well, to get work done, to be in attendance, to help you at every turn, to be decent, civilized human beings. No more fans cheering for you. No more awards assemblies to celebrate you. No more banquets. No more collective community concerned about your success or failure. No more parents to "excuse you."  No more parents to contact the school or teacher if they think something's wrong with a grade. No more parents to call your coach because you aren't playing enough. As far as the "real world" is concerned, you are simply another "you" that needs to be productive and find your place, and be accountable for yourself. So, how excited are you for this reality?! What is most exciting?...

What are the three best, greatest, most admirable traits about you? These could be physical traits, personality traits, intellectual traits, or anything. But, what are the three qualities you possess that you think are the "best" about you? Explain the trait and why you think it's great. On the flip side, what are three traits about yourself that you would change, modify, or improve if you could? Again, these could be physical traits, personality traits, intellectual traits, or anything. But, what is it about yourself that, if given the power, you would change?