A review by mariopartygod
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

dark funny inspiring lighthearted sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

An interesting story situated in the 1960s second wave of feminism as it pertained to white women in the United States. I can viscerally feel from my vantage point the anger Elizabeth feels when she's denied opportunity after opportunity. While frustrating and dark at times, overall the tone was light and tongue-in-cheek. I found the resolutions to be satisfying, and I enjoyed all the highlighted characters greatly. I really enjoyed the overarching message on seeing people for who they are, and not what their cultural script is. That theme reminded me of a Maya Angelou quote a friend shared with me a few years back: "When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time. People know themselves much better than you do. That's why it's important to stop expecting them to be something other than who they are". I have only seen that quote online portrayed as a warning against giving second chances in the spirit of self preservation, but I personally love the interpretation my friend shared with me: that Angelou is advising we take each other seriously, and de-center ourselves in our perception of others.
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