Isabel Allende

 

Franklin Library Isabel Allende books

Eva Luna - signed first edition - 1988

The Infinite Plan - signed first edition -1993

 

 

Author  Isabel Allende

Isabel Allende was born on August 2 1942, in Lima, Peru, is a Chilean-American author widely celebrated for her enchanting storytelling, rich narratives, and exploration of magical realism. She is regarded as one of the most prominent and influential contemporary Latin American writers. Isabel Allende was born into a well-connected and politically active family. Her father, Tomás Allende, was a Chilean ambassador, and her uncle, Salvador Allende, later became the President of Chile. However, Isabel's life took a dramatic turn with the military coup in Chile in 1973, which resulted in her family's exile. She settled in Venezuela, where she began her writing career.

Isabel Allende's debut novel, The House of the Spirits ("La Casa de los Espíritus" in Spanish), catapulted her to international literary acclaim. Published in 1982, the novel blends magical realism with familial and political drama, offering a multi-generational saga that mirrors the socio-political changes in Chile. The novel became a bestseller and established Allende as a literary force. Isabel Allende's body of work spans a range of genres, including novels, memoirs, and essays. Some of her notable works include Eva Luna (1987), Paula (1994), a memoir written during her daughter's illness, and The Japanese Lover (2015). Her novels often feature strong female protagonists, intricate family sagas, and elements of magical realism.

Dos Palabras by Isabel Allende is a short story. It was originally published in 1989 as part of the collection Cuentos de Eva Luna (The Stories of Eva Luna). The story explores themes of power, love, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The title Dos Palabras translates to "Two Words" in English. The narrative follows the life of Belisa Crepusculario, a woman who grows up in poverty and later becomes a successful, self-made person. The story takes an interesting turn when Belisa is hired by a military general to write speeches for him. In her encounters with the general, she discovers the power of language and the impact that words can have on people. Dos Palabras by Isabel Allende is a tale that weaves together elements of magic realism and social commentary, common in Allende's works. The story explores the transformative nature of language and the ability of individuals to assert their identity and find empowerment through words. Dos Palabras represents one of the best Isabel Allende books.

Throughout her career, Isabel Allende has received numerous awards and honors for her literary contributions. She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014, and she has been inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Allende's works have been translated into over 40 languages, attesting to their global resonance. Isabel Allende is not only known for her literary accomplishments but also for her commitment to social justice. She has been an advocate for numerous causes, including women's rights and the empowerment of marginalized communities.

Isabel Allende continues to be a prolific writer, with her novels receiving critical acclaim and resonating with readers around the world. Her storytelling prowess and ability to weave intricate narratives have solidified her place as one of the most beloved and influential authors of our time. Isabel Allende's life and work embody a captivating blend of personal history, political turmoil, and literary brilliance. Her ability to navigate the complexities of the human experience through storytelling has left an indelible mark on the literary world, making her a revered figure in contemporary literature.

 

 

Eva Luna

Eva Luna, a captivating novel by acclaimed Chilean author Isabel Allende, introduces readers to the vibrant and resilient protagonist whose name graces its title. Within the pages of this literary masterpiece, Eva Luna's life unfolds like a tapestry woven from the threads of passion, adventure, and imagination. Born into poverty in an unnamed South American country, Eva Luna's early years are marked by hardship and loss. Orphaned at a young age, she navigates the tumultuous landscape of her homeland, drawing strength from her innate storytelling ability and boundless imagination. As Eva matures, she discovers the transformative power of storytelling, using her gift to navigate the complexities of life and forge connections with those around her. From her humble beginnings as a servant in a wealthy household to her encounters with revolutionaries, artists, and lovers, Eva's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love to transcend adversity.

Through Eva Luna's eyes, readers are transported to a world of vivid imagery and richly drawn characters, from the bustling streets of the city to the lush landscapes of the countryside. Allende's lyrical prose and masterful storytelling imbue each page with a sense of magic and wonder, inviting readers to lose themselves in Eva's enchanting tale. But beyond the confines of the novel, Eva Luna serves as a symbol of hope and inspiration for readers of all backgrounds. Her unwavering optimism, fierce independence, and boundless creativity remind us of the power we hold to shape our own destinies and find beauty in the most unlikely of places. As readers accompany Eva Luna on her extraordinary journey, they are reminded of the transformative power of storytelling to illuminate the human experience and unite us in our shared humanity. Through her trials and triumphs, Eva Luna stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, resilience, and the human spirit.

The Infinite Plan

The Infinite Plan is an exploration of one man's journey through the complexities of life, love, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of California's diverse landscape, this novel follows the remarkable odyssey of Gregory Reeves, a man whose tumultuous upbringing and quest for meaning lead him on a path of self-discovery and transformation. Gregory Reeves, the novel's protagonist, is born into poverty and hardship in Los Angeles, California. Raised by a volatile father and a devoutly religious mother, Gregory's childhood is marked by violence, abuse, and a sense of profound alienation. Yet, despite the challenges he faces, Gregory possesses an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a fierce determination to transcend his circumstances.

As Gregory matures, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that takes him across the breadth of America's social and cultural landscape. From his experiences as a migrant farmworker to his encounters with activists, artists, and intellectuals, Gregory's quest for meaning leads him to confront the complexities of race, class, and identity in American society. Through Gregory's eyes, readers are offered a window into the diverse tapestry of human experience, from the struggles of marginalized communities to the enduring power of love and friendship. Isabel Allende's lyrical prose and vivid imagery bring each character and setting to life, immersing readers in Gregory's world as he grapples with questions of purpose, belonging, and the search for transcendence.

The Infinite Plan is more than a mere novel; it is a profound meditation on the human condition and the universal quest for meaning and fulfillment. As Gregory navigates the twists and turns of his journey, he confronts his own demons and discovers the transformative power of compassion, forgiveness, and self-acceptance. Ultimately, The Infinite Plan is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for redemption that lies within each of us. Through Gregory's story, Isabel Allende reminds us of the infinite possibilities that await us when we embrace life's challenges with courage, humility, and an open heart.

Isabel Allende quotes

"Write what should not be forgotten."

"We all have an unsuspected reserve of strength inside that emerges when life puts us to the test."

"You can't find someone who doesn't want to be found."

"I can promise you that women working together - linked, informed, and educated - can bring peace and prosperity to this forsaken planet."

"I don't intend to retire. I want to keep writing, as long as I can put words together."

"The most important things in life aren't things."

"Words are not that important when it comes to seduction. The fact that you have to argue for it kills the idea."

"I do not want to be a person just because I am born of a certain race or tribe. I want to earn my success."

"I believe in the magic and authority of words."

"You are the storyteller of your own life, and you can create your own legend or not."

"The library is inhabited by spirits that come out of the pages at night."