peggionthego

I'm thinking I should start with Isabel Allende, but she's quite prolific. Which of her books should be at the top of my list? What other books can you recommend to prepare for our first trip there? We are starting from scratch in terms of our knowledge of Chile.

Ajilimojili

I LOVE Isabel Allende's books. In preparation for our trip next month, I just read "My invented country", which is non-fiction and "Ines del Alma Mia" (Ines of my Soul) which is a fictionalized account of the conquest of Chile. Both are wonderful.

I think you will enjoy them both. I kept "googling" for the historical facts in "Ines" found that it's quite accurate, she just makes it "jucier" and immensely interesting.

Would like to hear your opinion if you read them.

mlgb

If you are going to Patagonia, "The Last Cowboys at the End of the World" by Nick Reding.

Something by or about Pablo Neruda.

peggionthego

Sadly, we are not going to Patagonia....just not enough time and money. BUT we will go to Atacama, Valpariso, the Lake District, and Santiago. Thanks for the Allende recommendations; I plan to download them to my Kindle!

peggionthego

Guess what? Neither is available on Kindle; not to worry...will order the paperbacks.

HappyTrvlr

I recommend "Isabel Allende's "House of Spirits" It was very helpful in understanding the country's history.

peggionthego

My daughter just gave me her copy of House of Spirits so I'll get right on it.