A review by bookobsessedmommy
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

challenging dark emotional funny informative inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

Well, this was an interesting read. The primary characters are so well written, being shown as they are perceived by others and themselves. The side characters are nearly caricatures, especially the TV head, Chemistry head, and master's adviser. They were so vile I could spit, all taking what they wanted from EZ, either physically, professionally, or both. The throughline of Calvin's story ties it all up in a neat bow, but it didn't feel forced. I think my favorite characters are Mad and the priest. So much is revealed in their conversations that gets to the root of how terribly we can treat one another and how comfort is more than "I'm sorry for your loss." The most surprising addition is 6:30. A bit of a screwball addition to the motley crew, but he rounds them out nicely. There was a fair bit of pontificating, a general distaste for religion (painted as wholly bad and the root of all things terrible with zero redeeming qualities) and some odd questions/statements from the men in the book. (Like the doctor wondering why so many women choose to have kids. Seriously?) I was shocked when it ended as it felt a bit rushed (was hoping for an epilogue), but I'm looking forward to her next book for sure.

Side note: I absolutely love the fact that the author is over 60. She doesn't address ageism much in this book but I'm sure the publishing business is similar to the rest of the world in favoring youth. Seeing a woman over 40 have so much success gives me hope.
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