paolajeanine 's review for:

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

4.75

challenging emotional funny reflective tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: N/A

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This book could  be a five-star except it wasn't what I was used to or expecting. But that is the point of the book. To challenge you and wonder why is it that you think that way and do it does it in a subtle, yet entertaining way. I didn't realize how deep I was in it until the end. All the characters had a depth that was very appreciated. The restricted information we have about the male love interesting also give the book an unexpected air of mystery. Like I said, this is objectively a great read, and I would recommend it to those who want to be challenged in a social-political way. The book balances heavy conversation topics, humor, and found family in a brilliant way.  It just didn't have that secret something that makes it into a 5 complete star rating

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Child abuse, Domestic abuse, Rape, Car accident, Death of parent

Minor: Sexism, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Vomit, Abortion, Death of parent, Sexual harassment