A review by ninjazzy
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

funny hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

Historical fiction, a good casual read but felt a little bit disjointed at times. The characters feel flat (interactions rely too heavily on a certain trait or characteristic), though there is a bit of development which only happens near the end of the book. It feels like there are too many coincidental relations between the characters. The story feels like it's mainly driven mostly by things that happen to the characters rather than a personal exploration. 

The message and story are otherwise inspiring and hopeful, even though it gives a glimpse into the not-so-distant ugly past of what it was like to be a woman in the United States in the 50s and 60s. There are some really great zingers in the book as well that got a smile or chuckle out of me while reading. 
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