Dinner at the Center of the Earth by Nathan Englander is a 2017 novel that intricately weaves the lives of diverse characters impacted by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Set against a backdrop of tumultuous events in the Middle East and Europe, it explores themes of identity, betrayal, and the quest for connection. The narrative alternates between 2002 and 2014, featuring Shira, a kibbutz member in Israel; a powerful Israeli politician known as "the General"; Farid, a Berliner with familial ties to Gaza; and Joshua, a Canadian exploiting the conflict for personal gain. As the characters navigate their lives amidst war and political strife, the novel highlights the ideological complexities of the conflict and its far-reaching effects. Key plot points include Shira’s longing for love amid chaos, Prisoner Z’s struggle for recognition in a desert prison, and the emotional turmoil of the General, who lies comatose. Ultimately, the story culminates in a poignant reunion beneath the Gaza border, where human connection persists despite the harsh realities of their world, conveying a powerful message about resilience and hope amidst despair.
0