Chapter 21: You are Nothing but a Sex Object Summary and Analysis

Augusten is not 15 years old. Dr. Finch, Hope, Augusten and Neil accompany Deidre to a Rhode Island hotel, where she undergoes nearly constant treatment from Dr. Finch and around the clock observation, for her own safety. An attempt to call his father to inform him about Deidre's health goes unanswered. Augusten notices that his mother seems to suffer an episode every fall.

While in Rhode Island, Dr. Finch confesses to Augusten that Deidre harbors suppressed love for the doctor that inhibits her recovery. In this instance, the doctor shows little regard for patient confidentiality.

To further the theme of unreciprocated love, Neil professes his deep love for Augusten. He passes Augusten a love letter that read, "you are nothing but a sex object." It appears that Neil...