Conduct your own research on Spain during the Golden Age and discuss how the historical context shapes the novel. What larger themes does this specific setting allow Bardugo to explore? How does she blend fact and fiction in her novel?

Consider why the novel is titled The Familiar. This would seem to be a reference to Santángel, who describes himself as a familiar, but the story mostly belongs to Luzia. What other definitions or interpretations of “familiar” might be in play with this title?

Discuss the role of magic in the novel. How is the nature and use of magic depicted? How do different characters conceive of magic, and what is the significance of these various views?