Khaled Hosseini Says Refugees Are Essential to America

From Medicine to Literature00:00:00

Khaled Hosseini shares his experience working as an internist while 'The Kite Runner' was becoming a hit, eventually deciding to leave medicine as his book-related interactions with patients became distracting.

Family Skepticism and Success00:00:36

Hosseini reflects on his mother's initial skepticism regarding his career change, noting that her support fully materialized once his second successful book, 'A Thousand Splendid Suns,' was published.

The Inspiration for Sea Prayer00:01:25

Hosseini discusses how the tragic photo of Alan Kurdi served as the catalyst for his book 'Sea Prayer,' which serves as a tribute to refugees and emphasizes their humanity and shared struggles.

Reframing the Refugee Narrative00:02:35

Hosseini discusses his personal history as a refugee from Afghanistan and argues that refugees are an essential, strengthening force in the American story, contributing significantly to the economy and society.

Supporting Refugees in the Community00:04:07

Hosseini offers practical advice for helping refugees, such as assisting with daily tasks like navigating transportation, finding employment, or offering friendship and solidarity to help ease the disorientation of resettling.