1. If you were expected to follow your father's vocation, would you conform or rebel? What would you do if you were expected to follow your mother's vocation? How would you resolve these situations?

2. What conflicts between traditional and modern ways exist in Andalusia as portrayed in Shadow of the Bull?

3. What do you think Manolo would have done if Juan had refused to fight his bull?

4. Do you recognize people who resemble Manolo's mother or the six aficionados in your world?

5. What are some of the ways that Manolo tries to conquer his fear? How do you deal with your own fears?

6. What are the various interpretations suggested by the title?

7. Does the book have a satisfying ending? Did you suspect what would happen ahead of time? Would you have ended the book differently if you were the author?

8. Is Manolo too young to...