In this ongoing series, we ask SF/F authors to recommend five books based around a common theme. These lists aren’t intended to be exhaustive, so we hope you’ll discuss and add your own suggestions in the comments!
I adore a good animal sidekick. An animal sidekick illuminates so much about the character it’s decided to assist—what she loves, fears, and needs to protect. That almost-mystical connection with an animal accomplice is neatly encapsulated in the idea of a familiar—a helpful spirit that is never entirely under the control of the protagonist. An animal always has a mind of its own, and will never strictly follow the orders of its human companion.