Here, the chemistry aids the plot in the best way: it adds depth without making the reader’s eyes blur with incomprehensible words and topics. She has a Master’s in Chemistry, and began her work at Hastings Research Institute, where she battled sexism, plagiarism, and an overtly toxic atmosphere daily just so she could continue her work in abiogenesis.ĭon’t let the word chemistry in the title or words like abiogenesis discourage you from picking up this book it is not your high school chemistry class that made you cry in frustration (that wasn’t just me, right?). She’s a chemist, explaining the building blocks of chemistry to under-appreciated housewives while teaching them how to make nutritious and fulfilling meals for their families and maybe also teaching them that they, and their dreams, are worthy and valuable.īut she didn’t start her career on a television set. Garmus expertly weaves wit and humor into this tale so often full of tragedy, leading the reader through a rollercoaster of emotions.Įlizabeth Zott is most known for her role on the popular television show Supper at Six, but she’s not just a TV chef. Set in the midcentury era in the United States, Lessons in Chemistry is a whirlwind of a book that pulls the reader in from the first sentence and doesn’t let go. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus will forever change the way you look at a sharpened number two pencil.Įlizabeth Zott is a wonderful chemist who could easily change the world, if only people would stop mistaking her for a secretary.

Lesson in chemistry book review