Book Review — Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
In Bonnie Garmus’ startlingly witty novel, ‘Lessons in Chemistry,’ readers are met with the story of Elizabeth Zott, a chemist, as she pioneers her way through life. The novel opens with Elizabeth Zott as a single mother of one, after the tragic death of her soulmate, fellow scientist Calvin Evans. Struggling to make ends meet despite her obvious intelligence, Elizabeth finds herself agreeing to star in a cooking show, which would soon become a symbol of much more than just cooking for women all around America.
This book is undoubtedly feminist, showcasing an unapologetic Elizabeth Zott who proves again and again that women are capable of the same things men are. Yet this does not come without struggle. Bonnie Garmus is able to craft a genius yet subtle storyline of the sexism Elizabeth faces in everyday life, from men blatantly abusing their position and taking advantage of Elizabeth, including stealing credit for her work, to even unexpected and perhaps unconscious discrimination from fellow women. And though this story takes place in the historical context of the 1960s, the themes are still very much relevant for today.
Additionally, Elizabeth’s role as the star of her cooking show, ‘Supper at Six,’ is one of the most fascinating and notable parts of the book. Though the show has a rocky start, Elizabeth is soon able to direct it in the direction she wants. Every episode is spent with her teaching women across America a new dish, with its speciality being that Elizabeth is a chemist, and so is able to offer a new insight into cooking. However, cooking is not all the show is about. Throughout the entirety of her job spent working on the show, Elizabeth teaches women to be proud of themselves for being a mother, and to not be afraid of taking on careers, even when all the men in their lives tell them not to. Supper at Six quickly becomes a symbol of hope for women in America. At the same time however, Elizabeth garners many new enemies, seeing as she outrightly proclaims her stance on being atheist at a time when Christianity was seen as fact. Men also come after her, which is not surprising.
Not only is Bonnie Garmus able to tell such a thought-provoking story, she also manages to create a wonderful and heartwarming cast of characters. First of course is Elizabeth Zott. Brilliant and bold, she immediately captures the attention of every reader, drawing them into her beguiling world. Second and one of my favorites, is Elizabeth’s dog Six-thirty. Named after the time she got him, Six-thirty takes after Elizabeth by being exceptionally intelligent and highly protective of Mad, Elizabeth’s daughter, who is just as resilient as her mom. Of course there is also Walter Pine, the producer for Elizabeth’s cooking show, and Harriet Sloane, Elizabeth’s neighbor. All these colorful characters collide to form a touching story.
Combining all these factors together, Bonnie Garmus is able to produce a vibrant and charming page-turner, one that you won’t forget.
