Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus is about chemistry, cooking, overcoming obstacles and various relationship dynamics – all taking place in the 1960s. Elizabeth Zott has a lot going for her, but ironically these are the exact things creating some of her biggest issues.
Zott is a brilliant chemist, but unfortunately it’s a thankless profession as a woman during this time period. She falls in love with a coworker who happens to be a renowned chemist named Calvin Evans. Everyone believes she is with him for her own personal gain, but there is no denying their mutual attraction.
Spoilers ahead
Everything changes when Calvin meets an untimely death, leaving Elizabeth with their super smart rescue dog named Six Thirty (LOVE him) and an unborn daughter, Madeline. Elizabeth loses her job and begins working out of her own self-made lab in her kitchen. She eventually lands a role as a television dinner host for a show that becomes hugely popular. Her tv personality infuses a mixture of chemistry and life lessons while making delicious meals. Elizabeth eventually realizes that she needs to follow her own advice.
Calvin’s background begins weaving into Elizabeth and Madeline’s lives creating some surprises along the way.
This book is full of smart writing and quirky, interesting characters.
Read, Review, Repeat 