A review by akizato
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

What an engaging and inspiring story- really reflects some of the issues faced by women in academia today, but magnified 10x by being set in the 1950/60s. Loved the exploration of identity and what women should be allowed to be, and how being the tall poppy can be really hard. Loved that it emphasised the importance of surrounding yourself with a good support system. Especially loved that it never once looked down upon domestic tasks as inferior to science, just different things that should both be respected. Elizabeth was a really fun character who went through so much but stuck to her principles, even when it cost her greatly, and she felt very well rounded. Her romance with Calvin was so endearing, and I was genuinely sad when it was cut short (though the way he went out was kind of comical). The ending wrapped everything up neatly, but after reading so many books recently with more realistic endings, it was refreshing to read one where the main character got a happy ending, especially after all she suffered. Also I would die for Six Thirty, what a good boy!
Expand filter menu Content Warnings