Digitization is practically inescapable for literature today, even when it is published in traditional book format. Books are reviewed on virtual networking sites, discussed in blogs and commented on Instagram, Twitter and in other networking communities. This was the case for Jakob Wegelius’ novel Mördarens apa [The Killer’s Ape], a nominee for best book for children and young adults. The aim of this study is to analyse Mördarens apa and to map its readings, as presented in media and social media. The theoretical framework draws on intersectionality theory (De los Reyes & Mulinari, 2005; Lykke, 2008) as well as posthumanist theory (Braidotti, 2002; 2013). The data collection method resembles virtual ethnography (cfr. Hine, 2015; Kozinets, 2010). The analysis uses an approach from the sociology of literature (e.g. Escarpit, 1970) in an attempt to understand how readers’ own readings of the novel deal with the theme of Otherness. The protagonist in Mördarens apa represents Otherness in many respects; Sally Jones is a mute, female gorilla who defines herself as a mechanic. The story takes place in a vaguely defined past and in settings far away from contemporary life. Tentative results show that the readings contain strong elements of identification with the Otherness.

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