“Center of the Earth left me breathless. Werner’s journey from fear and loss in Berlin to warmth and hope in Ecuador reminded me why stories of courage, resilience, and humanity must never be forgotten. The way Darlene Campos captures friendship, faith, and the small acts of care that help us survive even the darkest times truly stayed with me.” -Theresa Maria Villarreal, Author, Co-Host for The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast
Darlene Campos’ Center of the Earth is a deeply moving historical fiction novel for teen and young adult readers. The story follows Werner, a Jewish boy from Berlin, and Dahlia, a Catholic girl from Ecuador, from ages ten to young Adulthood. Werner’s life during the Holocaust is marked by hardship, discrimination, and fear, while Dahlia and her family provide him safety, care, and the chance to experience humanity in ways he never knew. When Werner arrives in Ecuador, Dahlia’s family welcomes him with warmth, gives him a beautiful room, and ensures he feels part of the family. This is a striking contrast to the harsh, confined conditions he endured in Berlin.
As Werner settles into his new life, he grows in many ways. He learns Spanish, begins taking debate classes, and starts learning the responsibilities and rituals of adolescence, including shaving. Dahlia’s family introduces him to Ecuadorian traditions, such as her quincenera, and he begins to develop feelings for Dahlia, adding a tender layer to the story of friendship and resilience. At the same time, the book does not shy away from the persistent antisemitism of the time, including references to blood libel, grounding the story in historical reality while showing the challenges Werner continues to face.
One of the most touching aspects of the story is how Werner’s faith and heritage are honored. Dahlia goes out of her way to help him connect with his traditions, from learning a new language to receiving a Torah carefully chosen for him. Scenes like these show the profound impact of care, thoughtfulness, and cross-cultural friendship. Campos conveys beautifully how memory, tradition, and love can survive even the hardest times.
The narrative alternates perspectives between Werner and Dahlia, allowing readers to see both their courage and vulnerability. Their friendship, full of laughter, support, and small adventures, balances the heavier historical themes and makes the story relatable, hopeful, and heartfelt.
Center of the Earth impacted me deeply. It is a reminder of why we must continue telling stories like this. The evil of antisemitism is ever-changing, and sharing these histories through thoughtful storytelling honors those who lived through them while teaching future generations the importance of empathy, courage, and humanity.
I highly recommend this novel for teen and young adult readers, educators, and anyone who values historical fiction that preserves memory, honors survivors, and inspires compassion.
