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A review by tristatereader
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
Lessons in Chemistry definitely lived up to its hype. It was a raw and real look at how women were treated in the 1950s and, spoiler alert (but not really), they were treated pretty shitty. It’s a book about overcoming decades of adversity and abuse, hitting your rock bottom, and still persevering.
Elizabeth Zott is a female chemist who overcomes incredible trauma. Despite being constantly beaten down by the misogynistic assholes around her, she never stops being her true, authentic self. I thought Elizabeth’s character was spot on to her profession and background. In true chemist fashion, she was methodical and rigid. But she loved with her whole heart and would do anything to protect her found family.
Mad Zott, Elizabeth’s daughter, was pure perfection. She was snarky, witty, and completely charming. I loved her fearlessness, especially with her teacher. When she challenged her teacher regarding the gender normative “pink is for girls, blue is for boys”, I whooped and cheered.
Finally, Six-thirty was the best character I think I’ve ever read. I felt like he represented Elizabeth’s ego when her id and superego were working double time. He was the voice of reason, the protector, the one constant in the Zott/Evans/Sloane/Pine family.
The plot was incredibly creative, the characters were so lovable, and the writing was absolutely intriguing. Add it to your TBR list because this is a must read from me!
Elizabeth Zott is a female chemist who overcomes incredible trauma. Despite being constantly beaten down by the misogynistic assholes around her, she never stops being her true, authentic self. I thought Elizabeth’s character was spot on to her profession and background. In true chemist fashion, she was methodical and rigid. But she loved with her whole heart and would do anything to protect her found family.
Mad Zott, Elizabeth’s daughter, was pure perfection. She was snarky, witty, and completely charming. I loved her fearlessness, especially with her teacher. When she challenged her teacher regarding the gender normative “pink is for girls, blue is for boys”, I whooped and cheered.
Finally, Six-thirty was the best character I think I’ve ever read. I felt like he represented Elizabeth’s ego when her id and superego were working double time. He was the voice of reason, the protector, the one constant in the Zott/Evans/Sloane/Pine family.
The plot was incredibly creative, the characters were so lovable, and the writing was absolutely intriguing. Add it to your TBR list because this is a must read from me!