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Last updated on March 9, 2026
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus is a bestselling historical fiction novel that follows Elizabeth Zott, a chemist who is dealing with sexism and discrimination at work. The plot is very unique and it is enjoyable to read a female empowerment story that has so much humour. Also, the relationship that Elizabeth has with her daughter, Mad, is wonderful to watch unfold. If you enjoy books that feature women overcoming challenges, then this is one to add to your book club’s reading list.
Title: Lessons in ChemistryAuthor: Bonnie Garmus
Publisher: Doubleday
Genres: Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Historical Fiction
Publication Date: March 31, 2022
Rating:
Your ability to change everything - including yourself - starts here.
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.
But it's the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute take 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.
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.
Review: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Elizabeth is an intriguing and interesting character who is easy to root for. She gets fired by the company that she works for after her partner passes away. Then she discovers she is pregnant and gives birth to her daughter, Mad. As time goes on, she becomes the host of a popular cooking show that combines the elements of science and food. Elizabeth is both witty and intelligent, which makes her such a fun host for her cooking show and main character of the book.
✿ Wonderful Mother-Daugher Relationship
What is really lovely to read about is the way that Elizabeth parents Mad. Elizabeth treats Mad with respect and does not back down when Mad’s teacher is not thrilled about her inquisitive nature. She is such a loving mother and they make a great team. Their wonderful mother-daughter relationship is one of the aspects of the story that really stands out to me.
✿ Many Fantastic Messages
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus is a perfectly addictive read if you enjoy a quirky character who is striving to overcome challenges. There are so many fantastic messages in this feel-good story and the writing is so much fun. If you love rooting for the underdog, this is one book to try.
About Bonnie Garmus
Bonnie Garmus is a copywriter and creative director who’s worked widely in the fields of technology, medicine, and education. She’s an open-water swimmer, a rower, and mother to two pretty amazing daughters. Born in California and most recently from Seattle, she currently lives in London with her husband and her dog, 99.
About Lori
Avid reader. Contributor to The Candid Cover. Educator.
Looks good
This looks really interesting. Thanks for sharing.
The book sounds like a fun read. Great cover.
This sounds like a fun read and the cover and title are good.
I would love to see her cooking show in real life. Sounds very good.
I can not wait to check this book out.
Sounds like a great read.
I like the book summary!
Cool cover
Just finished reading the review of Lessons in Chemistry — wow, what an amazing story. I love that it centers on a brilliant woman fighting through sexism and pushing boundaries, while still keeping humor, heart, and hope alive. The journey of the main character — from lab-nerd to cooking-show icon and devoted mom — sounds compelling. Thanks for sharing this review and hosting the chance to win a copy ❤️