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A review by bookbowlchallenge
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
4.0
Lessons in Chemistry was a casual, enjoyable read. Garmus does a great job crafting interesting and strong characters. I especially liked strong-willed Elizabeth. While a bit socially clueless, she was intelligent, direct, and stubborn in the best way. Dr. Mason was another favorite. Especially when we contrast him against the other men in the novel, Dr. Mason shines as a strong ally to Elizabeth. He is kind and honest. He motivates and encourages Elizabeth, while still disclosing the difficulties of what she is about to go through.
Of course, Six-Thirty was another shining star. He was charming and I enjoyed reading his sections. His intelligence and consciousness does take you out of the realism, but I didn't mind.
With an impossibly intelligent dog among the cast, why then was I so bothered by the impossibly intelligent toddler, Mad? I suppose with Six-Thirty, it is understood that we are suspending a bit of disbelief. Similar to how we often give our pets a 'voice' at home. But with Mad, I feel that her prodigious intelligence was a bit too stretched. I struggled to connect with her character.
Tiny spoiler:
Garmus clearly did her research before writing this novel. The science and chemistry content was enjoyable even as a layperson. I didn't find it to be too advanced or dense, while still honoring the field. I also appreciate how Garmus included rowing in the book. It's clear that she personally has a passion for it.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun read that still packs an emotional punch. TWs ahead, though, beware! I laughed and cried - and I love a book that can make me do both! It was easy to root for the characters throughout the story. This book will satisfy the reader who likes all loose ends neatly tied up by the final pages. Overall, it was enjoyable.
4.5/5
Of course, Six-Thirty was another shining star. He was charming and I enjoyed reading his sections. His intelligence and consciousness does take you out of the realism, but I didn't mind.
With an impossibly intelligent dog among the cast, why then was I so bothered by the impossibly intelligent toddler, Mad? I suppose with Six-Thirty, it is understood that we are suspending a bit of disbelief. Similar to how we often give our pets a 'voice' at home. But with Mad, I feel that her prodigious intelligence was a bit too stretched. I struggled to connect with her character.
Tiny spoiler:
Spoiler
My other small gripe is the eyerolling pregnancy reveal. I'm so tired of this played out trope of woman + vomiting = pregnant. This is clearly a pet peeve of mine that others may not share, but still, bothersome enough to mention.Garmus clearly did her research before writing this novel. The science and chemistry content was enjoyable even as a layperson. I didn't find it to be too advanced or dense, while still honoring the field. I also appreciate how Garmus included rowing in the book. It's clear that she personally has a passion for it.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun read that still packs an emotional punch. TWs ahead, though, beware! I laughed and cried - and I love a book that can make me do both! It was easy to root for the characters throughout the story. This book will satisfy the reader who likes all loose ends neatly tied up by the final pages. Overall, it was enjoyable.
4.5/5