Winter in Afghanistan means a three-month break form school. It also signifies the time for kite tournaments. Kite fighting is one of the few activities Amir shares with Baba. However, Baba's equal treatment of both him and Hassan causes jealousy on Amir's part. Amir determines to win the kite tournament, to gain his father's respect and gain pardon for his mother's death in childbirth. Baba predicts a win this year.
For his part, Hassan runs fallen kites better than any other kid in town. The children run down the falling kites, keeping them as a prize. Yet, Amir continues to taunt Hassan. He asks Hassan to vow to eat dirt for him. Ever humble and loyal, Hassan complies. Amir realizes that Hassan is.....
