Response to Camille

Camille,
It is interesting how you talk about Baba's character development after he has died. Our perception of Baba as noble and all knowing changes after his death, and we suddenly see him as a flawed human being. Relating back to my idea of the second half of the novel as Amir's 'growing up' phase, it seems like Amir really only understands his father's fallibility after his death. This is another step in his maturity.
It also seems that once they moved to America and were "dirt poor" as you said, they could finally find peace. Baba no longer had to seriously worry about his reputation; the only people judging him were those that attended the flea market. As he became older and weaker he grew easier on Amir, and Amir became more of the parent. In a new environment, it was Amir who had to guide his father.
America became, as it is for most people, an escape from their old life in Kabul. Everything that reminded Baba of his "sins" was no longer present, and thus he could live a more peaceful life. Moving to America was important to Amir and Baba's relationship, but it was also only a small moment of peace when compared to the events that were still yet to come. It did, however, bring Amir and Baba a period of joy; Baba grew proud of what Amir was accomplishing. It is unfortunate that he did not live to see Amir become a true hero.