lessons in chemistry review

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#1 GLOBAL BESTSELLER WITH MORE THAN 8 MILLION COPIES SOLD • Meet Elizabeth Zott: “a gifted research chemist, absurdly self-assured and immune to social convention” (The Washington Post) in 1960s California whose career takes a detour when she becomes the unlikely star of a beloved TV cooking show. • STREAM ON APPLE TV+

This novel is “irresistible, satisfying and full of fuel” (The New York Times Book Review) and “witty, sometimes hilarious...the Catch-22 of early feminism” (Stephen King, via Twitter).

A BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR: The New York Times, Washington Post, NPR, Oprah Daily, Entertainment Weekly, Newsweek

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.  

Laugh-out-loud funny, shrewdly observant, and studded with a dazzling cast of supporting characters, Lessons in Chemistry is as original and vibrant as its protagonist.

From the Publisher

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Doubleday; First Edition (April 5, 2022)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 400 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 038554734X
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0385547345
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.55 pounds
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.38 x 1.35 x 9.53 inches
Reviewer: Mainer
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Title: Wonderful book! One of the best I've read lately.
Review: Goodreads and other social media have been recommending this book to me for a while, but I looked at the cover and decided I didn't want to read another nerdy rom-com. I enjoy that genre generally, but not enough to grab this one. Then I saw the trailer for the upcoming Apple TV show. Puzzled, I read the blurb and a few reviews. This is where the old saying about "assumptions" showed me I was making a colossal mistake in judging a book by its cover.Anyway, long story short, I haven't enjoyed a book like this in a very long time. It's more historical fiction about the fifties and sixties as well as women's fiction. Elizabeth is a chemist in the Fifties, though very few think a woman has the mind and ability to be a scientist. The one exception is Calvin Evans, a noted chemist in his own right and the man who becomes Elizabeth's soulmate.This is brilliant writing, wry and poignant in turn. Elizabeth is alone except for Calvin because she's beautiful and intelligent, a deadly combination to men's egos that makes her an unwitting rival to other women who think their only job is to marry and produce children in this era.The supporting cast is lovely. Mad is perfect in her own unique manner, a genius of a child who sees things more clearly than many adults. Six-Thirty, the dog, has some of the best 'lines' in the book. Harriet, the Catholic neighbor stuck in a dead marriage, becomes Elizabeth and Mad's support line. Every character, good and bad, feels like people I've met in my real life, and it is delightful to see them collected here, contributing to this wonderful story.I'm old enough to remember the Fifties and Sixties. Ms. Garmus had captured every nuance of the period and sprinkled them like fairy dust over the stories about rowing and early live TV. If this all sounds like an odd combination, believe me, the author makes it all work. Bonnie Garmus has produced a terrific book, and I can't wait for more from her.

Reviewer: SB Mama
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Title: A Breathtaking Journey of Love and Science
Review: Prepare to be captivated by Bonnie Garmus' enchanting novel, "Lessons in Chemistry," a heartwarming and delightful tale that beautifully combines the wonders of science and the complexities of human relationships. Through her exquisitely crafted prose, Garmus takes readers on a remarkable journey that will leave them feeling enlightened, deeply moved, and inspired.Set in the early 1960s, "Lessons in Chemistry" introduces us to Elizabeth Zott, a driven and passionate young woman who finds herself caught between her dreams of becoming a scientist and the societal expectations that seek to confine her to the role of a housewife. Garmus masterfully portrays Elizabeth's struggle to defy the odds and pursue her ambitions by landing a position as a television cooking show assistant. This unexpected opportunity sets the stage for a captivating exploration of career aspirations, personal growth, and the power of embracing one's true self.What truly sets this novel apart is Garmus' remarkable ability to seamlessly weave together the worlds of science and love. As Elizabeth navigates the complexities of her demanding job and an unexpected romance with a charismatic professor, readers are treated to a thought-provoking examination of the intersections between personal and professional aspirations. Garmus' attention to detail shines through as she incorporates fascinating scientific principles into the narrative, making "Lessons in Chemistry" not just a love story but also a celebration of the joys of learning and discovery.Moreover, Garmus' skillful rendering of her characters deepens the emotional resonance of the story. Elizabeth emerges as a strong and relatable protagonist, her journey serving as a powerful reminder that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter the obstacles that stand in our way. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, providing layers of authenticity and dynamics that make them truly unforgettable.Notably, Garmus' prose is elegant, poetic, and infused with genuine emotion. She effortlessly transports the reader to a bygone era, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the 1960s. From the bustling television studios to the hallowed halls of academia, every setting is brought to life in vivid detail, creating a rich and immersive reading experience."Lessons in Chemistry" is not simply a book; it's a celebration of women's empowerment, the pursuit of dreams, and the courage to redefine societal norms. Bonnie Garmus has created a masterpiece that will resonate with readers long after they have turned the final page. If you are searching for a novel that will uplift, inspire, and remind you of the transformative power of love and intellect, "Lessons in Chemistry" is an absolute must-read. Prepare to be captivated by its beauty and left with a renewed belief in the endless possibilities that life has to offer.

Reviewer: Terri Mort
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Title:
Review: Lessons in Chemistry was absolutely fantastic. A delve into feminism of the 50’s & 60’s with brave and brilliant choices made by main character, Elisabeth Zott. What I additionally loved was the clever writing style of Bonnie Garmus. The book showed unique humor, tragedy and the struggles to get ahead in 20th century realities. Winning literature for sure!

Reviewer: Majo Noriega
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Title:
Review: Es una maravilla. Simplemente maravilloso. La protagonista te cautivará de principio a fin y el humor y los detalles de cada personaje te atraparán. Una lectura deliciosa. Nada forzada ni “elegante”. Fluida y sumamente entretenida. Me encantó!!!!

Reviewer: Rainner Teixeira
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Title:
Review: There is long time that I’ve read something so impactful, interesting and profound. A book that took my attention since the first chapter and make me feel inspired by stories full of encrypted messages and important debates.

Reviewer: The Book Critiques
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Title:
Review: Set in the 1960s, Lessons in Chemistry introduces us to Elizabeth Zott, a fiercely intelligent chemist navigating a world that constantly underestimates her. Rejected by the male-dominated scientific community, Elizabeth’s life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes the host of a cooking show, Supper at Six. But this isn’t your average show—Elizabeth sneaks in lessons on chemistry (both literal and metaphorical) to empower women and encourage them to break free from societal norms.This book is a perfect blend of humor and heartbreak. Elizabeth is a character you can’t help but root for. Her resilience and unapologetic pursuit of her passions are inspiring, and her journey is a stark reminder of how much women have had to fight for basic recognition. The supporting cast adds layers to the story, especially her quirky dog, Six-Thirty, whose unique perspective brings both warmth and humor.Garmus beautifully tackles themes like sexism, love, loss, and perseverance. The feminist undertones are strong, but they never feel forced. Instead, they’re woven seamlessly into Elizabeth’s story, making you think about how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go.The writing is sharp and engaging, with moments that make you laugh, cry, and cheer for Elizabeth. Garmus also does a brilliant job of making scientific concepts accessible and interesting, turning the mundane into something extraordinary.Lessons in Chemistry is more than just a story; it’s a call to challenge societal norms and believe in your own power. Whether you’re a fan of strong female leads, love stories with depth, or books that make you think, this one’s for you.

Reviewer: Amazon Kunde
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Title:
Review: Ich kann das Buch nur JEDEM empfehlen- es ist so erfrischend anders und keine klassische Liebesschnülze.