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Lessons in Chemistry: The No. 1 Sunday Times bestseller and BBC Between the Covers Book Club pick by [Bonnie Garmus]

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Bonnie Garmus

Lessons in Chemistry: The No. 1 Sunday Times bestseller and BBC Between the Covers Book Club pick Kindle Edition

by Bonnie Garmus (Author) Format: Kindle Edition

12,612 ratings

in Political Fiction

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THE #1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER and NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
OBSERVER'S 'TEN DEBUT NOVELISTS OF 2022'
A STEVE WRIGHT BBC RADIO 2 BOOK CLUB CHOICE

'Sparky, rip-roaring, funny, with big-hearted fully formed, loveable characters' SUNDAY TIMES

'The most charming, life-enhancing novel I've read in ages. Strongly recommend' INDIA KNIGHT

'Laugh-out-loud funny and brimming with life, generosity and courage' RACHEL JOYCE

'A novel that sparks joy with every page' ELIZABETH DAY
____________
Your ability to change everything - including yourself - starts here

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.

But it's the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute take 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.

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.
__________
SOON TO BE A MAJOR APPLE TV SERIAL, STARRING BRIE LARSON

'I loved Lessons in Chemistry and am devastated to have finished it!' NIGELLA LAWSON

'Elizabeth Zott is an iconic heroine - a feminist who refuses to be quashed, a mother who believes that her child is a person to behold, rather than to mould, and who will leave you, and the lens through which you see the world, quite changed' PANDORA SYKES

'It's the world versus Elizabeth Zott, and I had no trouble choosing a side. A page-turning and highly satisfying tale: zippy, zesty, and Zotty' MAGGIE SHIPSTEAD, author of GREAT CIRCLE

Print length

392 pages
Language

English
Publisher

Transworld Digital
Publication date

5 April 2022
File size

2040 KB
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Review

The most charming, life-enhancing novel I've read in ages. A perfect delight. It's about Elizabeth Zott, a scientist who accidentally becomes a TV cook in the early 1960s. Very strongly recommend ― INDIA KNIGHT, SUNDAY TIMES

This triumphant feminist fable, wittily observed, is teeming with vivid comic set-pieces ― TELEGRAPH, Fiction of the Week

Polished, funny, thought-provoking. Wearing its research lightly but confidently with sentences so stylishly turned it's hard to believe it's a debut ... The real pleasure is in the dry wit of Garmus's writing ― GUARDIAN, Book of the day

Not only is Elizabeth an unforgettable character, so too are her adorable dog Six Thirty and daughter, Mad. This is a truly unique book with some great life lessons ― WOMAN AND HOME, Best Books of 2022

A book that sparks joy with every page. LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY is both funny and rousing: it had me laughing one minute and air-punching the next. Bonnie Garmus has created an unforgettable heroine ― ELIZABETH DAY

It's the world versus Elizabeth Zott, an extraordinary woman determined to live on her own terms, and I had no trouble choosing a side. Lessons in Chemistry is a page-turning and highly satisfying tale: zippy, zesty, and Zotty ― MAGGIE SHIPSTEAD, author of GREAT CIRCLE

Full of humour heartbreak and characters who feel like real people. This is a book that everyone will be talking about ― RED MAGAZINE

I haven't loved a character as much as the hero of this joyful, warm debut in a very long time ― GOOD HOUSEKEEPING, Book of the Month

Absolutely unputdownable. I completely loved it ― RICHARD E GRANT

A transporting read, recommended for fans of Where'd You Go, Bernadette and The Marvelous Mrs Maisel ― STYLIST MAGAZINE, BOOKS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2022

In Garmus' debut novel, a frustrated chemist finds herself at the helm of a cooking show that sparks a revolution. Welcome to the 1960s, where a woman's arsenal of tools was often limited to the kitchen - and where Elizabeth Zott is hellbent on overturning the status quo one meal at a time ― NEW YORK TIMES

A fast-moving plot, zippy dialogue and wry sense of humour. A satisfying story with hateable villains and loveable good guys. Garmus's sparkling writing is a breath of fresh air ― SUNDAY EXPRESS

Elizabeth Zott is the smart, fierce star of Garmus' witty debut. Brilliant ― MAIL ON SUNDAY

Lessons in Chemistry is a vibrant and original story of hope and staying true to yourself. Laugh-out-loud funny, shrewdly observant, and brimming with life and generosity and courage ― RACHEL JOYCE

A timeless book. Elizabeth Zott is an iconic heroine - a feminist who refuses to be quashed, a mother who believes that her child is a person to behold, rather than to mould, and who will leave you, and the lens through which you see the world, quite changed ― PANDORA SYKES

Entirely enjoyable, totally engrossing novel, Garmus' beautifully drawn characters, her polished, engaging prose and a hugely satisfying plot make for a glorious read.
Lessons In Chemistry is alight with warmth, wit and hard-won wisdom. Absolutely wonderful

― DAILY EXPRESS

Original and refreshing. Elizabeth Zott is one of those singular, unforgettable characters you don't come across enough in fiction. Witty and dark, it is both a breath of fresh air and a reminder of how much still has to change for true equality ― PRESS ASSOCIATION

Zott is a brilliantly realised character whom it's impossible not to love...[a] warm and addictive novel which cleverly and entertainingly unpacks the thorny questions around women's empowerment, the need to be true to oneself and why we should refuse to accept the limitations others try to impose on us. A triumph ― DAILY MAIL

Smart, funny, big-hearted ― SUNDAY TIMES

A fabulous novel. Compelling, satisfying, a real page-turner ― NINA STIBBE

Witty, inspiring and a joy ― I-NEWSPAPER

Feminism is the catalyst that makes [Lessons in Chemistry] fizz like hydrochloric acid on limestone. Elizabeth Zott does not have 'moxie'; she has courage. She is not a 'girl boss' or a 'lady chemist'; she's a groundbreaker and an expert in abiogenesis. . . To file Elizabeth Zott among the pink razors of the book world is to miss the sharpness of Garmus's message. Lessons in Chemistry will make you wonder about all the real-life women born ahead of their time - women who were sidelined, ignored and worse because they weren't as resourceful, determined and lucky as Elizabeth Zott. She's a reminder of how far we've come, but also how far we still have to go

― NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW

Lessons in Chemistry is a breath of fresh air - a witty, propulsive, and refreshingly hopeful novel populated with singular characters. This book is an utter delight - wry, warm and compulsively readable ― CLAIRE LOMBARDO, author of THE MOST FUN WE EVER HAD

A proper page turner which really made me giggle. It's so dry. The humour has a gorgeous lightness of touch. I really enjoyed it ― STEVE WRIGHT, BBC RADIO TWO BOOK CLUB

Original, fresh, tender, funny and warm. The story dances and swirls, captivating the reader from the first page. Elizabeth Zott is the most wonderful character. Just fantastic ― SINEAD MORIARTY

Strikingly relevant. . . Darkly funny and poignant. . . Lessons in Chemistry's excellent experiment is quirky and heartwarming ― THE ATLANTIC

A funny, thought-provoking revenge story. Elizabeth Zott is ahead of her time. This is such a great book, everyone should read it! ― SHAPARAK KHORSANDI

Garmus has made feminism not just palpable, but delicious ― I-NEWS

On par with Beth Harmon of The Queen's Gambit, Elizabeth Zott swept me away with her intellect, honesty, and unapologetic selfhood. Lessons in Chemistry is a story for all the smart girls who refuse to dumb themselves down despite a culture that demands otherwise. Though a creation of the 50s & 60s, Zott is a feminist icon for our time ― RACHEL YODER, author of NIGHTBITCH

A truly involving and uplifting book! Bonnie Garmus addresses serious topics with humour that is genuinely funny. I especially liked the dog. Mine only appears to know one word, which is 'supper', but there again she is a Labrador. I'm sure this is going to be a great success, and deserves to be ― ANNE YOUNGSON, Costa Book Award-shortlisted author of MEET ME AT THE MUSEUM

This incredible novel has EVERYTHING - an unforgettable heroine, wry humour, love, family and bucketloads of optimism and female empowerment. It's WONDERFUL ― HANNAH BECKERMAN

An energetic debut ... A more adorable plea for rationalism and gender equality would be hard to find ― KIRKUS (starred review)

Bold, smart and often hilarious look at so-called women's work ― REAL SIMPLE, US

Like a woman-centric "Mad Men" ... A witty and sharp dramedy about resilience and found families ... Readers won't be able to get enough of Elizabeth and her makeshift family. A story to return to again and again ― BOOKPAGE

Charming and emboldening tale with a vintage sheen... A thoroughly entertaining and emboldened look at gender in the 1960s. A must read! ― MAGIC RADIO, BOOK CLUB READ

Garmus delivers an assured voice, an indelible heroine and relatable love stories ― WASHINGTON POST

Elizabeth is a woman who challenges the norms of a woman in the 60s...her perseverance to succeed is enthralling. The fight to do what she really wants, and that alone, is one that'll have you rooting for her throughout ― STYLIST

Indefatigable and formidable, Elizabeth pushes the bounds of how women and their work are perceived in this thoroughly engaging debut novel ― BOOKLIST

Like a woman-centric "Mad Men" ... A witty and sharp dramedy about resilience and found familes. Readers won't be able to get enough of Elizabeth and her makeshift family. A story to return to again and again ― BOOKPAGE

A kicky debut, this book tackles feminism, resilience, and rationalism in a fun and refreshing way ― BUZZFEED

Every bit as brilliant as everyone is saying. Funny, clever, full of heart and wonderful characters. I loved it ― A J PEARCE

Unforgettable ... Elizabeth Zott is intelligent, fearless, determined and utterly inspiring ― CULTUREFLY

Witty, fast-paced and unabashedly amusing' Lessons in Chemistry is 'written with charm, verve and piercing insight ... a future classic ― LITERARY REVIEW

The best book I've read recently. I loved it ― SARA COX, BBC 2 Between the Covers

I loved it. You don't want to finish it. You don't want to put it down. It's wonderful to hear a voice that has total honesty and clarity. I love that Elizabeth Zott is funny and hasn't got a clue that she's funny ― DEBORAH MEADEN, BBC 2 BETWEEN THE COVERS

I loved everything about it. There were so many things I could relate to ― STEPHEN BAILEY, BBC 2 BETWEEN THE COVERS

i couldn't put it down. It was so easy to read: hilarious, heartfelt. With all of the issues that we are still dealing with right now. Heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measure ― SUKH OJLA --This text refers to the paperback edition.

About the Author

BONNIE GARMUS is a copywriter/creative director who has worked for a wide range of clients, focusing primarily on technology, medicine, and education. She is an open-water swimmer, a rower, and mother to two wonderful daughters. Most recently from Seattle, she currently lives in London with her husband and her dog, 99. --This text refers to the paperback edition.

Product details

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B099JC5HQK
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Transworld Digital (5 April 2022)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
File size ‏ : ‎ 2040 KB
Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
Print length ‏ : ‎ 392 pages

Best Sellers Rank: 15 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
- 1 in Political Fiction (Books)
- 1 in Absurdist Fiction (Books)
- 1 in Satire (Kindle Store)

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Bonnie Garmus

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Bonnie Garmus is a copywriter and creative director who has worked for a wide range of clients, in the US and abroad, focusing primarily on technology, medicine, and education. She’s an open water swimmer, a rower, and mother to two pretty amazing daughters. Most recently from Seattle, she currently lives in London with her husband and her dog, 99.

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4 star		23%
3 star		4%
2 star		1%
1 star		1%

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Top reviews from Australia

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Amazon Customer

delight and fascinating

Reviewed in Australia on 7 May 2022

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I loved this book
Elizabeth and Madeline Zott are unique and fascinating characters and the story of their life together and the loss of the equally fascinating Calvin Evans is a real treat.
I want to see Elizabeth’s cooking show!
And I want a dog life Six-Thirty!

Reviewed in Australia on 31 May 2022

Verified Purchase

I found lessons in chemistry refreshing, engaging, funny and at times heartbreaking. I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to end. It reminds me of Graham Simison’s Rosy Project which I also loved. The characters were brilliantly crafted and perfectly imperfect. Highly recommend!

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pimg

Couldn’t wait to finish book but wanted it to go on forever

Reviewed in Australia on 25 May 2022

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A wonderful look at the life of a strong, intelligent woman dealing as best as she can with the world of her time.

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kak

What a truly fantastic story!

Reviewed in Australia on 23 May 2022

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I laughed, cried & was outraged! The best book I've read in a long time. So well written, I just couldn't put it down. Highly recommended it to everyone!

Reviewed in Australia on 10 June 2022

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The best book I've read. Witty, clever, heart-warming and heart-wrenching all at once.
I can't fault it, except that i wish it never ended!

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claire

Loved Lessons in Chemistry

Reviewed in Australia on 22 May 2022

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Loved this book. It was an easy entertaining read that captivated me from the start. Couldn’t put it down.

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susan duncan

Original and captivating!

Reviewed in Australia on 21 May 2022

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As Kath & Kim would say, noyce, different and unusual. Loved it!

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Wonderful, anger-inducing, but ultimately uplifting

Reviewed in Australia on 7 April 2022

What an absolute joy Lessons in Chemistry was to read! I'm confidently expecting that it will become the feel-good hit of the season.

That said, it's not a book full of sunshine and kittens by any means - terrible and unfair things happen to the central character and her nearest and dearest on a frequent basis. But Elizabeth Zott is such an effervescent and inspiring character that one can't help but get caught up in her story and cheer her on.

While there's a delightful sense of wonder as we follow Elizabeth, her hilariously precocious daughter Mad and their remarkably perceptive pet dog, Six-Thirty, in their very untraditional - for the 1960s - lives, there is a deeper current to the story. Author Bonnie Garmus explores issues including sexism, gender roles, social mores around marriage and parenthood, the impact of childhood and family trauma, the importance of community and the courage necessary to stand up and change things for the better.

Any reader who believes in gender equality will feel rightly agitated throughout the course of the book, but it's ultimately an uplifting and heart-warming story, featuring a central cast of wonderful characters, doing their best when faced with some genuinely horrible villains.

I'd highly recommend Lessons in Chemistry to any reader, female or male, who enjoys mid-century historical fiction, luminous characters and the us-against-the-world trope. It's a fabulous read, to which I fear I really cannot do justice in this review.

My heartfelt thanks to the author, Bonnie Garmus, publishers Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, Doubleday, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book in advance of its publication on 5 April 2022.

One person found this helpful

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Nicola

A gem of a debut!!

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 10 April 2022

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I want to start this review by saying that I thought that I had read some amazing books already this year, ones that I had given 5 stars, I was wrong, having now read this stunner of a book. My 5 star reads from this point forward will all be measured on this book - this is my 5 star barometer!!

Elizabeth Zott is a Chemist in the 1960’s, the only problem is that everyone else sees her as everything but that! Her male colleagues won’t take her seriously and see her as nothing but a woman who has ideas above her station. Although they are all threatened by her greatness and are more than happy to steal her work. All apart from Calvin Evans who is also a chemist and known for his greatness in the field of science. Calvin never looks down on Elizabeth and they start a relationship that would have beautifully stood the test of time.

Unfortunately life doesn’t always go to plan and Elizabeth finds herself alone and as a single mother. She finds herself presenting a tv show called Supper at Six, she uses this as her platform to give ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ to the women of America who she knows are meant to be doing greater things than being typecast as a wife and mother - she empowers them to do great things with their lives.

From the first to the very last word of this book I was hooked. Elizabeth Zott is an absolute legend of a main character, I was rooting for her throughout the whole story. This book is fiction, but it had me pondering on more than one occasion what it must have been like to be a woman at this time, I’m so glad that women like Elizabeth Zott make it possible for me to have the life and freedom that I have today.

Elizabeth is a very serious character, a bit like her story but it is told with comedic moments that did have me laughing out loud, especially how her daughter Mad got her name. She is such an endearing leading lady that you would love to have someone like her stood in your corner as your mother, aunt, sibling or best friend.

If you’re after a book that will leave your heart full, then look no further than this absolute masterpiece of a debut from Bonnie Garmus.

31 people found this helpful

Michael M. Murray

A chemical blast of a novel

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 April 2022

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What a chemical reaction I had with this work. It blew me out of the water. Really reminded me of the story telling style of John Irving, a well told tale, full of quirky characters that's as entertaining as hell. Fair play to the novelist, a successful career behind her and an even more promising one ahead.
Highly recommended.
Oh and if you're a writer that enters the first 500 word novel competitions, take a look at how this author does it... what a masterclass.

22 people found this helpful

Sam Schofield

Just wonderful

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 April 2022

Verified Purchase

I read about Lessons in Chemistry on a book mailing list a while back and instantly put it on my Want to Read list. I then applied for a copy on Netgalley, but there was so much interest in it I was very much surprised, but delighted, when I was given an ARC. Thank you to Netgalley and Random House.

The book did not disappoint. Elizabeth Zolt became my hero from the opening pages. The characters are all well written, the good and the bad. The story moves well and never falters, it is such a page turner. Throughout the book I went from joy, to sadness to incandescent with rage and then back to joy again.

Bonnie Gamus has perfectly captured the injust way woman have been, and are, treated. She has a new fan in me and this book is going to sit with me for a long time. I wish her every success as a novelist and I hope she writes many more books.

15 people found this helpful

Kindle Customer

Absolutely wonderful

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 7 April 2022

Verified Purchase

If you read nothimg else this year you must read this brilliant and wonderfully enjoyable book ,Elizabeth Zott is a heroine to love

16 people found this helpful

Sally Zigmond

Not for me.

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 19 June 2022

Verified Purchase

I love fiction, especially historical fiction. I bought this book, having watched BBC TV's "Between The Covers". where everyone raved about it. Why? Because they were paid to? A child under 5 who reads War and Peace? Come on. That was bad enough. But a young academic whose professor rapes her viciously. Although she is angry, she dusts herself off and vows to get her revenge with no physical or mental repercussions? I tried to read on but the overall tone of the book was wrong. I felt sick because rape was treated so lightly. Humour is tricky to target correctly. Who is this book for? Not me. I struggled to read on. My action should have been to fling the book against a brick wall, but as my eyesight is poor, I read on a well-lit large print Kindle and I had no brick wall handy. All I can do is warn other readers.

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