“Because while stupid people may not know they’re stupid because they’re stupid, surely unattractive people must know they’re unattractive because of mirrors.”–Bonnie Garmus, Lessons in Chemistry
Elizabeth Zott knows a thing or two about adversity and disappointment. As a chemist in the early 1960s in an all male research lab, Elizabeth is subject to rampant sexism and discrimination. The one exception is the brilliant scientist, Calvin Evans, who respects and loves her–especially her mind. Unfortunately, life does not go as planned and Elizabeth ends up a single mother who leaves the lab and finds herself the accidental star of an incredibly popular television cooking show, Supper at Six. Elizabeth teaches much more than cooking, however, and her approach to the women watching the show validates and empowers them to pursue their dreams.
This debut novel by Bonnie Garmus doesn’t shy away from difficult subjects and while often humorous, it is also gut wrenching at times. 6:30, the dog, figures prominently in the story and even takes on narrative duty for a period of time. This construct doesn’t work for some readers, but I didn’t mind it and thought it added to the humor.
Content Advisory: Some language, sexual assault, sexism, suicide, car accident, negative view of religion.