Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

 Title: Lessons in Chemistry

Author: Bonnie Garmus

Genre: Fiction

Synopsis: Chemist Elizabeth Zott is not your average woman. In fact, Elizabeth Zott would be the first to point out that there is no such thing as an average woman. But it’s the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute takes a very unscientific view of equality. Except for one: Calvin Evans; the lonely, brilliant, Nobel–prize nominated grudge-holder who falls in love with—of all things—her mind. True chemistry results. 

But like science, life is unpredictable. Which is why a few years later Elizabeth Zott finds herself not only a single mother, but the reluctant star of America’s most beloved cooking show Supper at Six. Elizabeth’s unusual approach to cooking (“combine one tablespoon acetic acid with a pinch of sodium chloride”) proves revolutionary. But as her following grows, not everyone is happy. Because as it turns out, Elizabeth Zott isn’t just teaching women to cook. She’s daring them to change the status quo.  - Back Cover

My Thoughts

This novel is such a breath of fresh air. I received it as a Christmas gift, perfect for my chemistry teacher heart. The cover art is amazing, the edges of the pages are teal and a periodic table lines the front and back inside covers... to die for. 

Then you get to the actual story, which had moments that made me laugh out loud and moments that were absolutely soul-crushing (in the best possible way, haha). I enjoyed that there were several viewpoints explored throughout the novel, my favorite being the one of Six-Thirty, Elizabeth's faithful dog. 

This novel felt like a step away from books I usually choose for myself, and it was fun to read something in a different style. Despite the casual and amusing writing style, there are some really profound sentiments about societal views surrounding women, and I found tears rolling down my cheeks near the end. 

Comment below if you have read this book or have suggestions for others like it!

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