I have finally read Lessons in Chemistry. I feel so late to the train, but when I saw an option to watch the series, I knew it was time. This hype did not disappoint, even if I had mixed feelings on the tv show. Keep reading this book review of Lessons in Chemistry for my full thoughts.
Summary
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 as an average woman. But it’s the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute takes 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.
But 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
Immediately, I was drawn to Elizabeth’s character. She doesn’t fit into what people expect of her and she’s also unapologetic in her opinions. Whether or not you agree with her, she is going to stick to what she believes. And she’ll tell you! I admire that quality and if there’s something I’ll take from Lessons in Chemistry, it’s to channel a bit of that into my daily life. Elizabeth faces immense sexism not only as an aspiring chemist, but also a woman who doesn’t conform to the societal ‘standards’. She dares to dream differently.
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Lessons in Chemistry shifts and hops perspectives a bit which gives the book a broader perspective. We can see people she interacts with, who come in – and out – of her life which tells a piece of the story. We find out these posthumous secrets about Calvin and these pieces of ourselves we don’t share even with the ones we love. Lessons in Chemistry doesn’t only tell Elizabeth’s story, it also explores the secrets of the ones we love and the ways they intersect with ours. From a writing perspective, there were a few parts of the book that felt less seamless, but in general, the hype did not let me down here!
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