How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
He hated to admit he didn't know something already, and his blanket playing-dumb routine was cunningly crafted to cover any genuine gaps in his education. (16.123)
Very early on, Kevin finds a shrewd way to "play dumb" while managing to smarten up the whole time he's doing it. Kevin always needs to feel like he's ahead of the game—even if it means gaming the system to cover up his own weaknesses.
Quote #5
He was good. He was very, very good; you may not appreciate how good. He was smooth—the story was ready. (17.26)
Eva has a kind of sick admiration for Kevin's skills. She has a point. If Kevin could translate his powers of manipulation into something good, he would be a force to be reckoned with.
Quote #6
A kid does what we say—not to put too find a point on it—because we can break his arm. (17.48)
In a way, parenting is a form of manipulation. A parent has to find the balance between punishment and reward, and a punishment has to be severe enough to stick but not severe enough to damage the child. It's very psychological stuff. Eva can't find that balance with Kevin. Could anyone?