The Soul of a Woman

This is a marvelous memoir about a very courageous woman! She has had an ability and strength to overcome adversity and turn it to her advantage. There are also parts of the book where Allende describes the aging process in humorous- laugh out loud - descriptions. Short and a sweet a thoroughly fun read!

"The Soul of a Woman" is a thought-provoking and deeply personal book by bestselling author Isabel Allende. In this memoir, Allende reflects on the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of being a woman in the 21st century, drawing on her own life as well as the lives of the women she has known throughout her life.One of the strengths of the book is Allende's writing style, which is both honest and moving. She writes candidly about her experiences as a woman and a feminist, and her words are filled with wisdom, insight, and humor. The book is full of anecdotes from Allende's life, which are easy to relate to, and it's easy to see how her experiences have shaped her perspective on the world.Another strength of the book is its focus on the importance of sisterhood and the power of women coming together to support each other. Allende writes about the many women who have influenced her life, including her mother, grandmother, and female friends, and she celebrates the strength and resilience of women.Overall, "The Soul of a Woman" is a powerful and inspiring book that will resonate with women of all ages. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities and richness of being a woman in the 21st century.I would rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. The book is a great read for anyone who wants to understand the experiences of a woman and the feminist movement, but some readers might find it to be a bit too introspective and personal for their taste.

We are now in 2024 one day away from elections. This book makes so much sense to me. Even now

The journey taken by Allende inspires and motivates us all toward the liberation of women and the embracing of the Feminine Energy. Our world needs it and we women need to be ready to deliver.

I was very lucky to read the book and i agree undoubtely with what i understand are the basis of feminism: to promote tolerance, egalitarian rights, inclusion and justice. However, it really disappointed me when i read some parts of the book where the autor seems to demonstrate contempt for male condition, male values and masculinity in general. An example of this can be read when she mentions that "...women have more emphaty and solidarity than men..";"...destruction is masculine..." (pag.35) or "...As with many other species, human males are also vain..." (pag.40); "...women are more sociable than men and have more diverse interest..."(pag.84). Nevertheless, I understand that her intention is to prove that women have the same value as men. However, from my point of view, if we really want to promote egalitarian treatment and respect for all people, it is a terrible mistake to instigate conflict by disqualifying openly one band. It seems that Isabel Allende forgets or wants to ignore that the victims of Patriarchy are not only women but also men. We must not forget that most of people who commit crimes are also people who is rejected for the society, people who has suffered abuse or discrimination, independently if they are men or women. In the same way, the attributes, values or talents belong to both men and women. Indeed, even the name "Feminism" is not inclusive at all, because instead of promoting egalitarianism and union, it only generates oposition. At the end, the name of a movement that fight for people who is discriminated, abused, and oppresed by the system might not be so important for someone, but in this particular case, it is.

I can’t believe I haven’t read more by Isabelle de Allende. She expresses the exact thoughts I’ve had ruminating in my head about life, the influences on my life…family dynamics, events I had no control over. Her story is so close to my story, and I venture to say, there are many who can relate to her perceptions. That I could relate so closely to someone who grew up in Chile, a place far removed from my sphere of experience, makes me feel a little closer to the soul of the world. Her writing makes me wonder… why haven’t I written about my experiences and perceptions? What if I did? What if my words could inspire others to share their stories? What if, in doing so, we unleash a depth of understanding and compassion that brings the world ever closer to more love and joy? Well, Isabelle’s brave, honest, and wise words have done this for me. They’ve nudged me to dream a little about how I could be a little more brave, and honest. Can’t wait to read more of her books!

I have only read a few of Isabel Allende's novels; however, I just finished reading the hardcover edition of "The soul of a Woman" and enjoyed it very much. This is an informative and fascinating account of her intellectual and emotional journey, where even as a young child she became aware of the abuses of people, most especially women.Besides becoming an award-winning writer, all her life she has fought for human rights. If you are a fan of Isabel Allende's books you will love this revealing memoir.Rating: 4 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Zen Poetry Moments: Haiku and Senryu for special occasions).

I learned about Isabel Allende through Julie Louis-Dreyfus' new podcast 'Wiser Than Me' (on Lemonata). As I listened to the podcast, I became inspired and enraptured by Allende, and I promptly ordered several of her books so I could read them and experience her through her words. And what an experience that is turning out to be! It didn't take me long to read 'The Soul of A Woman', which as a writer, offered me a unique guide to memoir writing, storytelling, and how to weave feminism/manifesto into one book! The writing is accessible and the story (about her history of and commitment to feminism) was easy to follow. There was a section that was quite heavy on stats and realities about violence against women, sex trafficking and rape that was difficult to get through because of my own ignorance, but I needed that. I needed the impact of the stats, and to be held accountable for my ignorance. Allende's teaching-through-sharing is impactful, poignant and necessary. I look forward to meeting her in the page of her other books! Thank you, Isabel.

Thoroughly enjoyed Isabel Allende's sort of biography. I love her writing even more now. She opened my eyes up to women's situations. it was like having a coffee with a friend. I wonder if she had met her current husband years ago she would have had the fire of injustices inside her to write. Just a thought, she sounds so happy now.

Isabel Allende's The Soul of woman is a wonderful work written in a racy style showing the unfolding of creative and rebellious spirit . She sees her mother Panchita as a victim of circumstances, spurned by her husband. Isabel ' mother warned her about her ideas of feminism. But Isabel remains steadfast , faces male aggression, retaliates in kind and defines her self in her own terms. From being secretary copying forest statistics to an internationally acclaimed novelist , her assiduous journey is laudable and she credits her mother, uncle Ramon and her grand father Agustin as prop in her rise. She has fought against crippling influences of religion, family and followed her heart despite setbacks and describes herself as an' incurable romantic' and married third time when she was in her seventies. Passion, devotion and her mentor Carmen helped her realize her creative soul. She has left Chile, her native land fallen under Pinochet dictatorship, travelled a lot and finally settled in California. She has Ulyssesean spirit in deciding to remain physically, mentally and financially autonomous till the end. She wants deep changes wrought by women themselves and opposes violence against women in any form. Her visit to Rajasthan where she was offered a baby girl by her mother shocked and haunted her leading to foundation in memory of her own daughter Paula. As an incorrigible optimist, Isabel yearns for a world based on freedom, sustainability, peace, equality , empathy, beauty and joy. A heart touching work indeed!

It was very good to read this Allende book ! She is always good!

I have always liked Isabel Allende as a writer. I think that all books have something to think about..Good book!!I will recommend it to friends.