the author tries to make a lot of commentary through animals and humans which i found interesting. especially how different horses that alice's dad takes on represent different women in his life that he wants to control (""Jody's a good boy,' Ruby agreed. 'Gentle, you know? Of course, he's spent his whole life with girls. Three older sisters, two daughters, there aren't many men who could do neatly as well with so many women.' 
'He's good with horses too,' Mrs. Altman said. 
Ruby laughed. 'Same thing.'" pg. 125)