Hello friends! There’s nothing quite as satisfying as finding a really, really good book to read, which is why today’s post is dedicated to my new favorite book – Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus.
You may be asking: What makes this book so interesting? Well, the answer is simple. This book is smart, quick-witted, honest, thought-provoking, funny, and entertaining. Honestly, I laughed out loud more times than I can count reading it but also left every chapter learning something new about the characters and myself. If you’ve seen this book sitting on the shelf at your local library or bookstore, don’t hesitate, just pick it up and dive in. You won’t be sorry.
**This post includes affiliate links that if used I do receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. If you use any of my links thank you for the love and support. Now let’s get to the book . . .
What It’s About
This book follows a bright young female chemist named Elizabeth Zott who is finding it hard to be taken seriously in her field because of her gender. Set in the early 1960s, Elizabeth is faced with the refusal to be taken seriously by most of her male colleagues at Hastings Research Institute. They don’t believe that women can make good chemists – all except for one – Calvin Evans, a brillant, Nobel-prize nominated grump who goes and falls in love with Elizabeth.
When life takes an unexpected turn, Elizabeth finds herself as not only a single mother but a reluctant TV hostess of a new cooking show called Supper at Six. Elizabeth is unlike any other hostess on TV and the show quickly becomes a massive hit. By combining her love of chemistry and her skills for cooking, Elizabeth inspires women all over the country to change the way they see themselves and broaden their perspectives.
Why You Should Read It
I truly believe everyone should read this book – especially women – because it shines a light on inequalities that, sadly, a majority of women still face today. But even though it’s drawing attention to hard topics such as sexual harassment, sexism, chauvinism, and discrimination, Bonnie Garmus does it in a way that is entertainingly observant and completely approachable. While the cast of characters are definitely unique, each one is relatable and honest in a way that I found refreshing. No, this book is not a fairytale, but there is a happy ending and you will certainly find yourself thinking about Elizabeth Zott and Mad and Calvin and Six-Thirty (IYKYK) long after you’ve put the book down.
Once you’ve read the book, definitely be sure to check out the TV series on Apple TV. While it stays true to the book, it also expands on the world and characters Bonnie Garmus created, making it equally worthwhile.
Favorite Quotes
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Verse of the Day: There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. – Romans 8:1-2
