Owl whistle

Albert uses a whistle that sounds like the hoot of an owl to teach Joey to come when called, and serves as proof that Joey is who Albert believes him to be later in the book. Joey’s ability to respond to the call demonstrates not only intelligence, but trust of Albert. When Joey is brought into the military vet, Albert uses the owl whistle to get Joey to come to him, proving that the muddy, bloody, and battered horse before him really is his Joey.

Forty pounds

Forty pounds is the price for which Father sells Joey to Captain Nicholls. The 40 pounds is a tidy sum of money which will not only help keep the family afloat financially, but will help pay the farm’s mortgage. Father does not sell Joey with any malice or happiness, but only regret, because he knows how much...