Linda Sue Park's The Kite Fighters is celebrated for its rich historical setting and heartfelt exploration of brotherhood and family honor. Readers appreciate its vibrant narrative and cultural depth, though some find the pacing uneven. An engaging tale for young audiences, offering insights into Korean traditions, yet occasionally slow in momentum.

Readers who enjoy stories of sibling dynamics, historical adventures, and cultural traditions will appreciate The Kite Fighters by Linda Sue Park. Fans of A Single Shard by the same author or Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin will find its 15th-century Korean setting and engaging narrative appealing.

Set in 15th-century Korea, The Kite Fighters by Linda Sue Park follows the Lee brothers, Kee-sup and Young-sup, as they navigate familial expectations and societal constraints while preparing for the annual New Year kite fights. The story highlights their struggles with identity, honor, and tradition, culminating in a significant competition where their teamwork and individual talents are tested.

Heartwarming / Inspirational / Nostalgic / Bittersweet / Contemplative

**Lee Young-sup**  
An 11-year-old boy with a natural talent for kite-flying, who spends much of his time practicing and refining his skill. He struggles with the limitations placed on him as the second son in a neo-Confucian society.  

**Lee Kee-sup**  
The eldest son, known for his craftsman skills, particularly in making kites and toys. He faces pressure to fulfill his duty to carry on the family name and train for a position in the royal court, despite having different personal aspirations.  

**The King**  
A young monarch, close in age to the Lee brothers, who bridges societal classes by befriending them and seeking to understand their perspectives. He embodies the potential for societal change while navigating the constraints of his royal role.  

**Rice Merchant Lee**  
The father of Kee-sup and Young-sup, a respected figure who values tradition and strives to elevate his family's social standing through Kee-sup's success. His reserved nature and demanding expectations reflect his desire for familial advancement.

Linda Sue Park

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Kite Fighters and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Kite Fighters Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Kite Fighters Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

The Kite Fighters Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-8

The Kite Fighters Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-12

The Kite Fighters Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-16

The Kite Fighters Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Kite Fighters Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Kite Fighters Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Kite Fighters Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The Kite Fighters Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Kite Fighters Essay Topics

The Kite Fighters

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Kite Fighters?

Reading Age

Book Details