Isabel Allende discusses the importance of Barbie and stories about women

Isabel Allende discusses the importance of Barbie and stories about women

As a seasoned gamer with a heart for literature and a keen interest in women empowerment, I find Isabel Allende‘s journey truly inspiring. Her ability to create captivating stories about layered, complex, and powerful women is not only fascinating but also commendable.


Isabel Allende is a storyteller, known as being one of the most successful Spanish language authors around the globe. Her writing and creation of stories have earned her a spot as being honored by Barbie’s latest Inspiring Women Doll. Isabel Allende’s reach is so impressive, she was even honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014. Isabel Allende’s devotion to writing about layered, complicated, and exciting women allows her to be a celebrated author. However, Isabel Allende also had interesting things to say about how Barbie’s latest Inspiring Women Doll can help influence young girls around the world.

Isabel Allende discusses the importance of Barbie and stories about women

Isabel Allende finds it a privilege to be among such distinguished individuals. She’s been sharing with her grandchildren that she’s become famous now, and this new development is delightful. The entire process, from start to finish, has been enjoyable, and seeing the doll and its packaging just adds to the excitement. However, what truly makes it special for her is having her book, The House of Spirits, included. Her beloved dog, Perla, was also part of the project. All in all, this unexpected turn of events has been a wonderful surprise for Isabel and her family.

Isabel Allende: It seems that releasing the doll this month was intentionally timed to highlight the influence of Hispanics within our nation, particularly strong and influential women who are activists and work across various professions. If I can use a Barbie to symbolize them in some way, I believe it’s my duty as well.

Isabel Allende: I haven’t listened to it yet as it releases on September 17th, but discussing it was quite engaging. They inquired a lot about my life experiences and accomplishments since they aim to motivate young individuals, likely both boys and girls, by showcasing that if you dedicate the necessary effort, discipline, and have a supportive community, you can realize any dream you aspire to. The podcast’s primary objective seems to be inspiration, but it also includes games and captivating tales. It focuses on storytelling. I hope the kids will truly give it a listen.

Isabel Allende: It’s significant because it’s quite recent. When I began writing forty-two years ago, I was labeled as the sole Latina-American female writer during the Latin American literary boom. At that time, all the other writers were men, yet women have been composing stories for ages. Their narratives have often been overlooked, disregarded, or belittled. However, today we have an equal number of female and male writers, with even more women than men reading fiction. This indicates a market dominated by female readers, which is indeed crucial.

As a gamer, I’d put it this way: Stick to your gaming goals come hell or high water, but don’t forget to seek out allies who can provide guidance and encouragement along the way. Navigating the gaming world solo isn’t easy; believe me, I’ve been there! Having mentors and a support system would have made my journey so much smoother. Interestingly enough, the ones who’ve helped me throughout my career in gaming have primarily been women. My mother, who raised me single-handedly after my father left us when I was just three, is one of them. She, along with the many women who cared for my kids while I juggled multiple jobs, my mother-in-law, grandmothers, agents, and editors, have all been instrumental in my success. It’s a sisterhood of gamers supporting each other! So, if you aspire to reach your gaming dreams, remember it’s a combination of your determination and the support you can gather. Ask yourself, “What do I want to achieve?” Be clear about your goals. Reach out, there are always people ready to lend a hand!

Isabel Allende admits her preference lies with adult fiction novels, as she finds that the genre for young adults comes with stricter boundaries and tends to follow a more predictable pattern. She appreciates historical novels and literary works alike. Over the course of her career, she has delved into almost every genre, having authored twenty-eight books, and she looks forward to continuing this creative journey by exploring various genres. This diversity keeps her engaged as each new genre presents a fresh challenge for her.

Isabel Allende: Women: robust, self-reliant, bold, amusing, radiant, women who are kind and support each other, facing trials and tribulations, yet never faltering to rise again; they certainly don’t complain either, for they are not victims.

Isabel Allende: Non-fiction and fiction differ greatly. For instance, non-fiction might involve reporting on an event and requires factual accuracy, whereas a memoir, which is also non-fiction, delves deeply into personal experiences to reveal truths that are subjective based on one’s perspective. Fiction, on the other hand, allows for complete creative freedom – you can control your characters, moving them through various adventures and providing them with any outcome, such as a happy ending or tragic demise. The beauty of writing lies in crafting your own unique world and inviting yourself to be part of it. If there are young women reading this conversation, I strongly encourage you to try writing – it’s a truly rewarding experience!

Isabel Allende: Indeed, it’s a remarkable accolade within our nation. I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. I believe that I stood as a symbol of the Hispanic community during a period when anti-immigrant sentiments were escalating. There was significant media criticism towards Hispanics, yet there I was, in the White House, being awarded the medal – a recognition for all their efforts and contributions within our country.

Isabel Allende encourages them to believe their dreams know no boundaries. Just like the diverse collection of dolls symbolizing various professions, they could be a trailblazer like Jane Goodall in the jungle or a courageous activist such as Rosa Parks. Whatever their aspiration, it requires bravery, perseverance, and unwavering faith that nothing can hinder them. Life may present challenges, but with resilience and a strong conviction, even the toughest circumstances can be overcome. Allende shares her personal journey, having faced adversities as a political refugee and an immigrant, yet she credits her good fortune and unyielding determination for overcoming these obstacles.

You can purchase the Isabel Allende Doll and the Inspiring Women Collection on Mattel’s website.

Read More

2024-09-13 12:15