15 literary tattoos that will inspire book lovers to get more ink

VDF symbol from A Series of Unfortunate Events

Many readers grew up with Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events, a series following three unlucky orphans trying to stay away from Count Olaf, a man hellbent on stealing their fortune. Of course, that’s easier said than done—especially given Count Olaf’s talent when it comes to formulating disguises.

As A Series of Unfortunate Events continues, the three siblings—Violet, Klaus, and Sunny—begin to unravel the truth behind their circumstances. And they discover that there’s more to their parents’ deaths and Count Olaf’s pursuit than initially meets the eye.

Part of this has to do with a secret society called the Volunteer Fire Department (V.D.F.), a group that the three kids learn more about as they continue to deal with Olaf. The insignia of the group is an eye, a symbol that Count Olaf actually has tattooed on his left ankle. This eye tattoo often helps them identify the villain, and it’s a great piece for readers to add to their own reservoirs.

Replicating Count Olaf’s tattoo will not only allow readers who grew up following Violet, Klaus, and Sunny to recall their love of A Series of Unfortunate Events, but it will display their love of the series to other fans—essentially making them part of their own “secret society” if you will. And what’s cooler than that?