A review by mmarlborough
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

challenging dark emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

5⭐️ alert!!!!!! I knew when all my female book nerds told me I’d love this book, I’d be in for a treat. But I was worried it would be overhyped and I’m so glad that it wasn’t. If you like The Marvelous Mrs Maisel, this book will quickly become a favorite. 

Elizabeth Zott is an exceptional chemist. But she’s a female in a male dominated field in early 60s and the men around her do not recognize her brilliance. Fellow scientist Calvin Evans sees Zott for who she is and the two hit off. Life doesn’t always go as planned and she finds herself starring on a chemistry based cooking show, showing the American Woman what life could be.

Zott, Calvin, and their dog will stay with me as beloved characters for a long time. The character development here is expertly done. Garmus magically writes not only a quirky, hilarious book but one that handles tough topics like grief and sexual assault perfectly. I cannot believe this is her debut novel and will automatically buy whatever she writes next. I cannot recommend this book highly enough!

✨Trigger Warnings: Sexual assault, Death of a Parent, Violence, Suicide, Death