Put the teakettle on, like she used to do for me, back when she used to tell me I needed a jump start. These days, it was her needing a jump start.
-- Ian (3: The Dog)

Importance: This quote shows how, due to her addiction, Ian's relationship with his mother has shifted, their roles as parent and child have been somewhat reversed, as Ian now feels responsible for her, and feels that he must be the one to take care of her. Ian often feels this responsibility throughout the novel, often finding himself forced to take on the role of caretaker, getting a job to help support the family, which also means he cannot do things he would have otherwise enjoyed, like playing basketball. It is important to note that Ian does not quite blame his mother for this, as he knows she wants to be there for him.

And when things go to hell...
-- Ian (3: The Dog)