how is the story distinctivley afghan and how could it be american

The primary setting for this story is newly Taliban controlled post-Soviet Union Afghanistan. The theme of cultural identity disrupted by decades of war and conflict plays heavily in this story. A great juxtaposition involves the kite fighting tradition in Afghanistan. This competition becomes a motif that is ingrained in Amir's mind. It carries so much emotion and emotional baggage for Amir. While the Taliban have forbidden this tradition, it ironically is carried on in America. In the last scene of the book, Amir helps Sohrab fly a kite. Afghan customs of marriage and customs also fill the novel extending themselves into American society.