Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

In May, we met at Madeleine's home to discuss her book

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. This book is set

in the 1960's when women were not well respected in the

male dominated scientific workplace. Elizabeth Zott is a

research chemist working at Hastings laboratory. She is

treated more like a secretary rather than an equal except

for Calvin Evans a brilliant Nobel prize winner who falls

in love with her mind. They have a wonderful relationship

but then he dies leaving her with an unexpected daughter.

Elizabeth has to leave her research position because her

boss molests her and she is struggling  as a single mom

to raise her very bright daughter. Bonnie starts to host

a TV cooking show called Supper at Six which becomes

a huge hit because it begins to empower women to live

their best lives and to pursue their dreams. 

We were encouraged to share stories of personal experiences

in the workplace that might have been similar to Elizabeth's.

This book was witty, and sometimes even hilarious. It was

the author's debut novel. The book was full of charm, energy

and hope. It tackles feminism, resilience and features a great

dog. It was a book to savor.

Madeleine had nibbles for our discussion and lots of

wine to accompany our many Cosco treats of sandwiches,

salads and cookies. 

Linda chose a book called Remarkably Bright Creatures

for our next read.