How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
What child doesn't have a brother or sister? Half the world has seven or eight. Having a brother didn't make Natalie the way she is. One look at the two of them together and that big-shot psychiatrist would have known that. (4.28)
Moose overhears a conversation when he's a little kid about him and his sister. They're discussing when Natalie started showing symptoms of autism—which is about the time that Moose was born. They're also discussing how a sibling will affect Natalie's way of life. Poor Moose misunderstands this and thinks that Natalie's problems are his fault.
Quote #2
My father told me having Natalie as a sister is like playing ball when you're 100 times better than your opponent. You'll always win, but it will make you feel like a louse. I didn't see what that had to do with my sister ruining my stuff and my mother going mute. But it was pretty clear that getting mad at Natalie was the only thing that would never be forgiven. (5.24)
Having a sister like Natalie calls for a lot of responsibility. You can't play with her like other sisters—Mr. Flanagan compares it to playing a game with someone when you know you're always going to win. Sure you can go on and win… but it isn't going to feel good.
Quote #3
"Mrs. Kelly said we can't let ourselves get in Natalie's way. She said we're the stumbling block. If Natalie's going to change, we have to change first."
I blow air out of my mouth like I'm whistling with no sound. "So now it's our fault? (13.17-18)
Moose gets really angry over Mrs. Kelly's words because he feels like Natalie's therapist is blaming the family for her problems. This is a sensitive spot for him because they've spent so much of their lives loving and taking care of her. Much as they might need some help or support, letting go of some of this responsibility is hard.