Bonnie Garmus’s Lessons in Chemistry delivers a fiercely original, feminist story that became a global phenomenon. Set in 1960s America, it follows Elizabeth Zott – a no-nonsense chemist whose career hits roadblocks until she stumbles into hosting a revolutionary cooking show, Supper at Six.

Why readers adore this novel:

• A heroine like no other: Elizabeth’s logical, scientific approach to life (and cooking) is hilarious and inspiring

• Sharp social commentary: Explores sexism in science with wit and rage

• Unexpected love story: Her relationship with Nobel-nominated Calvin is deeply moving

• Six-Thirty: The most philosophical dog in literature

Key themes explored:

🔬 Fighting institutional misogyny (“Chemistry is change, and change is core to your beliefs”)

👩‍🍳 How domestic spaces became battlegrounds for feminism

💔 Grief, motherhood, and rebuilding one’s life

🍳 Why cooking is chemistry (and deserves respect)

Perfect for fans of:

• The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (1950s/60s feminism with humor)

• Where’d You Go, Bernadette (quirky, brilliant female protagonist)

• The Joy Luck Club (intergenerational female relationships)

Why it stands out:

✅ Balances laugh-out-loud moments with profound insights

✅ Features one of contemporary fiction’s most memorable heroines

✅ Makes science accessible and exciting

✅ That extraordinary dog narrator

A novel that’s as educational as it is entertaining – and as heartwarming as it is heartbreaking.