Isabel Allende is a Chilean novelist whose books have been translated into many languages, made into films and become classics in the lexicon of world literature. Amongst her most famous works are This House Of Spirits, The stories of Eva Luna, and Daughter of Fortune. She founded the Isabel Allende foundation in 1996 on a vision of a world in which women have achieved social and economic justice. This vision includes empowerment of women and girls and protection of women and children.

1. What does the Isabel Allende Foundation do?

My Foundation tries to empower women and girls in the areas of education, health and protection. We believe that if we empower a woman, we save a family, and if we help families, the community at large benefits. By empowering women we can change the world. An empowered woman will educate her children and raise strong daughters.

2. Which is more important: security or passion?

Passion. I am not interested in security, it's boring and it's also an illusion because life is risky and no one can be totally safe all the time.

3. What is your driving force?

Feminism. The desire to be independent, free, and fend for myself and my children.

4. Who are your heroes?

Women who care for others, support their families, struggle with poverty, abuse and repression, and also manage to love and sing in spite of all odds.

5. Name three things that empower women. Women need educational skills to support themselves. Health is essential, and that includes prevention and contraception. Women should be organized, keep in touch with each other and be informed, because isolation makes them vulnerable. Together they are strong.

6. Name three Bay Area nonprofits that need support.

Homeless Prenatal, Mujeres Unidas y Activas, Women's Recovery Services

7. What is your daily creed?

Do no harm and do good whenever possible.

9. Which novel is in your carry-on bag?

I travel all the time and in my carry-on there are always six or seven books. I don't have just one book with me. I seldom read a book twice because there are too many good writers out there and not enough time in my life to read them all.

10. What motivates people to give?

In most cases, the motivation to give is simple generosity and compassion, but I have heard that some people give to show off their wealth. It used to be diamonds, now it's philanthropy. Excellent! The motivation doesn't really matter, as long as they give.