On 15 October 2026, Isabel Allende stood on the stage at the Recinto Montjuïc of the Fira de Barcelona to receive the 75th Premio Planeta. The ceremony marked the anniversary edition of Spain’s richest literary prize, an event that draws attention each year to the evolution of Spanish letters and their role in reflecting the nation’s history. The King of Spain, Felipe VI, was present and highlighted how the prize has accompanied the evolution of the country’s literature and, through it, the transformation of Spain itself.
Allende’s winning work is titled 'La hora antes del alba'. Sources describe it as a continuation of her acclaimed first novel, 'La casa de los espíritus', a book that has resonated with readers for decades. By returning to the world of that earlier story, Allende links her newest creation to a narrative that has been celebrated in Latin American literature.
The Premio Planeta carries a monetary award of 1,000,000 euros. Winning the prize is described as a significant milestone in Allende’s literary career. In addition to the cash prize, the award brings a change in her publishing relationship: her work will move from the imprint Plaza & Janés to Planeta, the organization that administers the prize.
Alongside Allende’s victory, Sergio Hernández was named a finalist for his work 'La añoranza'.
The event at the Fira de Barcelona was more than a simple award presentation. King Felipe VI used the occasion to speak about the broader cultural impact of the Premio Planeta, noting that the award has mirrored the evolution of Spanish literature and the country’s transformation. His remarks underscored the connection between literary achievement and societal change, a theme that resonated with the audience gathered for the 75th edition.
Alongside Allende’s victory, Sergio Hernández was named a finalist for his work 'La añoranza'. Hernández received a prize of 200,000 euros for his novel.
During the ceremony or in associated comments, Allende expressed concern about the state of democracies worldwide. She said, “Viendo tantas democracias amenazadas, siento el mismo temor que sentí en 1973 y que me obligó a huir de mi país”, linking contemporary political anxieties to the fear she felt in 1973 that forced her to flee her country. In another statement she observed, “Cuando veo tantas democracias amenazadas por el nacionalismo extremo, incluso el fascismo, vuelvo a sentir el temor que me obligó a huir de mi país en 1973”. She also remarked, “‘No saben lo que significa esto para mí’”, indicating the personal weight of the award.
Allende’s biography notes her long-standing influence as a writer. Her works continue to be read across languages and generations, and her latest novel adds to a body of work that has earned her numerous accolades.
The 75th Premio Planeta has cemented another chapter in Isabel Allende’s ongoing literary journey. Her latest novel, positioned as a sequel to a foundational work, has been recognized with Spain’s top literary honor, accompanied by a substantial financial prize and a shift in her publishing home. The event brought together royalty, fellow writers, and readers to consider how stories continue to shape and reflect the world we live in.