Essay Questions

Why does Oskar become so interested on the topic of murder?

Oskar, at just twelve years old, becomes surprisingly enamored with the idea of murder, and collects magazine and newspaper articles of stories about killings. It becomes a favorite topic of his because he is resentful towards the bullies at his school, and wants to murder them. His interest in murder plays out thoroughly in his love interest in Eli, who is eventually able to kill and drink the blood of his bullies on his behalf.

How does Eli feel that she is an outcast to society?

Eli, throughout her short life, has come to accept that she is an outcast in society, but she often tries to overcome that constraint. She needs to drink blood to survive, but she still has the emotions of anyone else, even though she may seem villainous to many. This can be seen in her loving relationship with Oskar, which remains strong even after he finds out that she is a vampire. This fact is what makes Eli feel like she is an outcast, because she has a need that no one else around her experiences.

What is the significance of Hakan pouring acid on his face?

Hakan, though the guardian to a vampire, is a surprisingly dynamic and loving character. He goes out of his way to ensure that Eli always has enough blood to drink, even if it means killing numerous people. When he is almost caught in the act of murder, he pours acid on his face to disfigure it. He wants to stay out of jail and protect Eli's secret of being a vampire. Although he ends up in the hospital, Eli is still able to visit him.