Lessons In Chemistry Book Review

SUMMARY

Meet Elizabeth Zott, a chemist who defies the norm in every way. The early 1960s may be a time when stereotypes reign, but Elizabeth challenges the concept of an “average woman.” Leading an all-male team at the Hastings Research Institute, she encounters an unequal perspective on gender. However, amidst this bias, there’s Calvin Evans—an exceptional mind, a Nobel Prize nominee, and an unexpected admirer of Elizabeth’s intellect. Their connection sparks genuine chemistry.

Life, much like science, is full of surprises. A few years down the line, Elizabeth Zott becomes an unexpected single mother. But that’s not all—she’s also thrust into the spotlight as the unlikely star of America’s adored cooking show, “Supper at Six.” Her approach to cooking is far from traditional (“mix a tablespoon of acetic acid with a pinch of sodium chloride”), yet it triggers a culinary revolution. However, not everyone embraces her success. Elizabeth Zott isn’t merely teaching women to cook; she’s challenging the established norms.

In the pages of “Lessons in Chemistry,” you’ll find uproarious humor, astute observations, and a vibrant array of supporting characters. Just like its protagonist, the book is a unique and lively creation.

About The Author Of Lessons In Chemistry

Bonnie Jean Garmus (born April 18, 1957 in Riverside, California) is an American author and former copywriter.

Garmus is from Seattle.^[1] She has worked as a copywriter and creative director in the US, and has lived in Switzerland and Colombia.^[1]

In April 2022, her debut novel, Lessons in Chemistry, was published.^[2] The Guardian noted its “polished, funny, thought-provoking story … it’s hard to believe it’s a debut”.^[2] The New York Times commented on its “entertaining subplots and witty dialogue”.^[3] Olimpia Mamula Steiner, a professor of chemistry, praised the book profusely:

Once you start it will be difficult to put down, as soon as you finish a chapter you immediately want to read the next one, it’s almost addictive.^[4]

As of January 2022, Lessons in Chemistry had been sold into 35 territories and has a television adaptation in production at Apple TV+ starring Brie Larson.^[5] Éditions Robert Laffont published in May 2022 a French translation under the title La Brillante destinée d’Elizabeth Zott.^[6] The book was shortlisted for the 2023 RSL Christopher Bland Prize.^[7]