How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
She would have loved to surprise Elinor by showing contempt for her precious books, but she couldn't do it. Her curiosity was too much for her…The temptation was stronger than Meggie's pride. (4.51)
Meggie prides herself on being quite grown-up for a twelve year old, as well as for being very knowledgeable about books, thanks to her dad's profession—she would never do something as dumb as deface or mistreat a book, even though Elinor apparently thinks of all persons under the age of eighteen as little monsters. Probably a lot of young readers of Inkheart feel like Meggie does—proud at being able to handle themselves maturely, and annoyed when they're misjudged.
Quote #2
"What about this book?" asked Meggie.
"I don't think this one was ever in a church," replied Elinor. "Most likely it was made for a very rich man to enjoy. It's almost six hundred years old." There was no missing the pride in her voice. (4.58-59)
Elinor is very proud of her book collection. She's managed to buy top-of-the-line antique books, rare books, and, well, pretty much every other kind of book too. She keeps her most treasured books in a gorgeous library, and she takes care to keep the books away from harmful things like sunlight and dust. It's just like anyone else who has a collection that they're proud of: nothing is too good for whatever thing they're proud of owning.
Quote #3
He made the fire climb high in the air, as if to set the stars alight. Then he lit a second torch and ran its flame over his bare arms. He looked as happy as a child playing with a pet animal. (6.50)
Even Dustfinger, who's so full of self-loathing and cowardice, knows that he's a pro when it comes to handling fire. We suspect that he's even a tiny bit proud of his skills. He knows he's competent and can put on a good show, and he doesn't really bother to hide it, though he still doesn't come across as arrogant nearly as much as other characters in the book do.