Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus Published by Random House Audio on April 5, 2022
Format: Audiobook
Narrator: Miranda Raison
Length: 11 hrs and 55 mins
Genres: Contemporary, Women's Fiction, Historical Fiction
Amazon Audible
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.
It is hard to believe that Lessons in Chemistry is Bonnie Garmus’s debut novel. This thoughtful, emotional, and clever story is easily one of the best books I’ve read this year.
Elizabeth Zott is an unapologetic, uncompromising, brilliant chemist. It’s the 1960s, when the concept of women pursuing—let alone excelling in—STEM careers was absurd. I adored Elizabeth and enjoyed following her journey from dedicated scientist to cooking show sensation. The way she faces sexism and tackles obstacles with her head held high, fearless determination in every step, and pencil shoved firmly into her messy bun is inspiring.
Observations about chemical compounds and scientific findings are woven into every chapter, and I can see how that may be too much for some readers or make the story drag. But I was enraptured—not by the science but by the way Elizabeth’s mind works and by her passion. Her unique parenting style, frank opinions, as well as her messages of female empowerment make her unintentionally funny and refreshing. I listened to the audiobook, and Miranda Raison’s soothing voice and sincere delivery make Elizabeth’s peculiarities seem especially endearing. I’m not sure I would have enjoyed the book as much if I were reading it instead of listening to it.
The story is well supported by an eclectic cast of memorable characters, including Elizabeth’s partner who is an influential chemist, her supportive neighbor, her sweet but ineffective producer, and her wonderfully precocious daughter. And I can’t forget about her dog, Six-Thirty! He is just extraordinary and a pivotal character in his own right.
Lessons in Chemistry is inventive, insightful, amusing, and absolutely marvelous. The book has been picked up by Apple TV+ to be adapted into a series. This story and its remarkable characters should translate well on screen.
Recommended for fans of:
Science
Single mom stories
Dogs
Rowing
I’m going to have to keep this one in mind. It sounds like a strong debut.
I’m so glad you enjoyed it too! It’s one of my favorite books!
This book was so impressive! I generally read SFF but then this was my top read of the month when I read it!
I’ve loved every one of her books I’ve read. I’m glad you liked this too!