The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
This powerful novel, set in Afghanistan, explores both friendship and politics. Amir and Hassan grow up together; one the son of a wealthy businessman, the other the son of a servant. Amir who is well educated, often humiliates loyal Hassan who nonetheless defends his friend against local bullies. The turning point is a kite flying contest and an act of betrayal by Amir which severs the friendship and haunts Amir for the rest of his life. At the onset of civil war, Amir and his father escape to America but years later, he returns to Kabul to seek atonement. It is a compelling, gruelling but also surprising and inspiring book which has been made into a film currently showing in cinemas.