The bond between Joey and Albert is much stronger than just boy and pet, or boy and partner, or even boy and best friend. These first chapters serve to tell us just how strong their relationship is.

While some people (like, um, the ones being kicked by Joey) think he's just fiery and disobedient, seeing things from his perspective gives us more insight into his character. How do you think Michael Morpurgo got into the mindset of a horse to write?

Joey admires everything about Albert, and that encourages him to follow his instructions. He tries to find characteristics he admires in other riders he's forced to work with, like Perkins, but with Albert, it's easy.