When I say that I was a feminist in kindergarten, even before the concept was known in my family, I am not exaggerating.
-- Isabel Allende (N/A paragraph N/A)

Importance: The opening line of Allende's memoir highlights the depth and longevity of her beliefs. Feminism is and has always been at the core of her very being, and though she may not have been able to name it at such a young age, it has defined her existence, gathering strength and resolve as the years went by. This statement also points to Allende's unusual feistiness as part of a generation of women born in the 1940s who grew up obeying men, often denied basic rights such as voting or birth control.

My anger against machismo started in those childhood years of seeing my mother and the housemaids as victims.
-- Isabel Allende (N/A paragraph N/A)

Importance: Early childhood experiences often lead to lifelong principles. Allende's sense of injustice was awakened early on: she saw...