Isabel Allende's novel discusses various types of fortunes, including those acquired through gold mining, prostitution, and land ownership. However, what specific fortune does Allende reference in her title, Daughter of Fortune? It is clear she refers to Eliza as the daughter, but what constitutes Eliza's fortune? Support your answer with specific examples from the book.

Investigate the history of Ah Toy. Did she actually bring in young girls and force them into prostitution? Were there no laws to protect these girls? Examine the current laws in California to see if similar situations could be prevented today. Additionally, research the prostitution rings in Thailand that are comparable to Ah Toy's operation. Are there any organizations or laws aimed at protecting young Thai women?

Compose an essay on the evolution of women's rights in Chile from the early 19th century to the present. How have these rights changed over time? Are there notable leaders in this movement? Compare the feminist movement in Chile to that in the United States. Are women in Chile more liberated? Did they achieve certain rights earlier than women in the U.S.? Provide statistics on women's participation in business and politics in Chile.

Describe the sailing vessels that journeyed from South America to California in 1850. Find illustrations of ships similar to the one Eliza traveled on, including the interior layout. How were people, animals, and cargo accommodated? How much space did passengers have to move around? What was their daily routine at sea? What about the crew? What kinds of tasks did they perform? What food did they consume? Provide statistics on mortality rates aboard such ships.

Create a journal as if you were Eliza during her sea voyage. What thoughts might have occupied her mind? Imagine the feelings of being confined in a small cabin for an extended period, swaying with the waves, fearing death but also dreading another day in such bleak conditions. Consider how sheltered her life had been: she had rarely ventured outside alone, yet now she was traveling to a different country. What do you think sustained her through this ordeal?