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49 pages 1 hour read

Zorro

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005

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Book Brief

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Isabel Allende

Zorro

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

677

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • 1790s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Zorro by Isabel Allende is a historical fiction novel chronicling the origins of Diego de la Vega, who becomes the masked vigilante Zorro. Set in Spanish colonial California and France, the narrative traces Diego's upbringing, education, and adventures, highlighting his deep sense of justice, romance with Juliana, rivalry with Rafael Moncada, and initiation into a secret organization. The novel depicts graphic violence, sexual assault, and racism.

Adventurous

Fantastical

Romantic

Humorous

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

3.8

23,681 ratings

64%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Isabel Allende's Zorro is praised for its rich narrative and well-developed characters, offering a fresh take on the legendary hero. Reviewers commend the engaging storytelling and historical depth, though some criticize the pacing as uneven. Overall, it skillfully blends adventure and cultural insight, appealing to fans of historical fiction and folklore alike.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Zorro?

Readers who relish swashbuckling adventures, rich historical settings, and dynamic character development will love Zorro by Isabel Allende. Fans of The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas or Captain Alatriste by Arturo Pérez-Reverte will find Allende's vibrant narrative style and engaging plot equally captivating.

3.8

23,681 ratings

64%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Diego de la Vega (Zorro)

The adventurous protagonist known for his romantic nature and sense of justice, who assumes the masked identity of Zorro to protect the oppressed.

Diego's loyal childhood friend and ally, who communicates without speaking and eventually shares in Diego's double life as a second Zorro.

The main antagonist of the story, a wealthy and powerful man who employs deceit and corruption in an attempt to further his ambitions.

Diego's mother, who is a Shoshone warrior and part of his dual heritage, providing him with a strong sense of cultural identity and values.

Diego's father, a traditional Spanish aristocrat and landowner who upholds his cultural beliefs but deeply cares for Diego's upbringing.

Diego's spiritual Shoshone grandmother who guides him in his understanding of Indigenous values and his personal development.

A lively and spirited friend of Diego and Bernardo, and the story's narrator, who plays a supportive role in adventures while developing her own skills.

Diego's love interest, known for her beauty and kindness, who chooses to pursue a life of adventure rather than settle for traditional roles.

A Franciscan friar who mentors Diego in justice and fairness, exemplifying coexistence between Spanish and Indigenous cultures.

A strong-willed and influential widow who aids those in need but also represents the complexities of aristocratic power.

A fencing maestro who becomes Diego's mentor in Spain, introducing him to a secret society focused on justice.

A generous and fatherly figure who hosts Diego in Spain, holding progressive views while retaining certain traditional attitudes.

The dedicated and protective chaperone of the de Romeu sisters, who accompanies them throughout their journeys.

A charismatic pirate who captures Diego and others on their way to California, playing a significant rival and influence on Diego.

A compassionate supporter of Diego's cause, eventually becoming an important figure in his personal life.

A Romani woman who aids Diego and Bernardo, forming a close bond with them while challenging certain cultural constraints.

A childhood rival of Diego and Bernardo who maintains his bullying ways into adulthood, eventually becoming a corrupt governor.

Book Details
Pages

677

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • 1790s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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