Although the novel is told through the voice and perceptions of the upper class Amir, I would argue that it nevertheless gives voice to the powerless. In Amir's telling, even if we must suspect him of being self-serving, he makes the lower class, largely powerless Hassad come alive as a sympathetic character. And through Hassad, Amir shows the dignity and worth of the exploited ethnic group, the Hazara.

Amir depicts Hassad as having many admirable character traits. Hassad is honest, hardworking, energetic, likable, resourceful, and brave. We might rightfully cringe at his loyalty to his "masters" Amir and Baba (we could suspect Hassad of experiencing more anger over his exploited circumstances than Amir wants to acknowledge) but Hassad's loyalty is still a positive trait.

The story that shows that most of what Hassad suffers is undeserved, which builds sympathy for him. He is as much Baba's son as Amir, even if he is illegitimate, but he is offered none of the advantages and privileges afforded to Amir. Hassad is a victim of Amir's cowardice in not defending him from rape and a victim of Amir lying about him stealing. It is difficult not to feel outrage on Hassad's behalf for the unjust way he is treated.

Admittedly, it would be by far best if Hassad could tell his own story in his own words rather than be filtered through the controlling narrative of his upper class "friend." At the same time, Hassad attains voice because Amir makes him so real and sympathetic to us.