Review by brekkerlun - Lessons in Chemistry

brekkerlun 's review for:

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

4.0

emotional funny inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I liked this a lot more than I thought I would, as this is not the kind of novel I usually gravitate towards. It has witty writing (despite some very cheesy lines sprinkled throughout), loveable characters, and although predictable, the plot was engaging enough for me.

My only gripe with this would be that the plot seems forced at times, or perhaps too unrealistic? everything falls into place fairly easily and moves according to what the protagonist needs in that specific moment, and so once you realise that all is too convenient, the stakes lower by a lot.

I’d also point out that you shouldn’t go into it expecting super accurate descriptions of the daily life of a scientist (specially not that of a female one in the 50s/60s), or of how they behave. I can see why the way they were portrayed annoys a lot of people as it can come off as reducing them to stereotypes.

I’d still recommend the book, and say that you should go into it knowing that it is a lighter read. I had a good time with it, never felt bored and found myself attached to the characters (it has a cute dog!!!) and that’s all I needed to enjoy it.

Content Warnings