Isabel Allende, Planeta Prize 2026: "Beware of the far right and the far left, authoritarianism exacerbates problems"

Isabel Allende's new novel, 'La hora antes del alba', reflects on contemporary authoritarianism while revisiting characters from 'La casa de los espíritus'. Winning the Planeta Prize 2026, she emphasizes the dangers of extreme politics and the urgency of her narrative amid global democratic threats. Allende discusses the widening social inequalities and the impact of technology on society, asserting that while equality is historically elusive, aspirations for it remain vital. She also highlights her transition to a new publishing house, viewing it as an exploration rather than a break from her past. Allende expresses gratitude for her literary journey and the support she has received, focusing on the joy of storytelling rather than commercial pressures.