Lessons in Chemistry

Lessons in Chemistry" by Bonnie Garmus: A Book Review

If you're a fan of coming-of-age stories and science, then "Lessons in Chemistry" by Bonnie Garmus is a book that you definitely need to add to your reading list. This debut novel tells the story of a young woman named Daphne who dreams of becoming a scientist, but is forced to confront the sexism and gender discrimination that existed in the scientific community during the 1960s.

The novel is set in a time when women were discouraged from pursuing careers in science and were expected to prioritize marriage and family over their professional aspirations. Daphne's struggles to break free from these societal expectations and pursue her passion for science is what makes this book so compelling.

Plot Summary

Daphne is a young woman who is passionate about science and dreams of pursuing a career as a chemist. However, she is constantly discouraged by her family and peers, who believe that women are not capable of succeeding in scientific fields.

Despite these obstacles, Daphne refuses to give up on her dreams and starts working as a laboratory technician at a prestigious university. While working in the lab, she meets a young professor named Dr. Greyson who recognizes her talent and helps her pursue her scientific goals.

As Daphne navigates the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field, she also has to confront her feelings for Dr. Greyson, who is already married. The novel explores the complexities of their relationship and the difficult choices that Daphne has to make as she pursues her scientific career.

Themes

One of the main themes of "Lessons in Chemistry" is the struggle of women to break free from societal expectations and pursue their dreams. The novel highlights the sexism and gender discrimination that existed in the scientific community during the 1960s, and how women had to fight against these obstacles to succeed in their chosen fields.

Another theme that the novel explores is the complexities of love and relationships. Daphne's relationship with Dr. Greyson is both romantic and intellectual, and the novel explores the challenges that they face as they try to navigate their feelings for each other.

Writing Style

Bonnie Garmus' writing style is engaging and immersive, and she does an excellent job of capturing the atmosphere of the 1960s. Her descriptions of the laboratory and scientific experiments are detailed and vivid, making the reader feel like they are right there with Daphne as she conducts her research.

Garmus also does a great job of developing the characters in the novel. Daphne is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist, and the other characters in the book are well-rounded and nuanced.

Conclusion

"Lessons in Chemistry" is a captivating debut novel that explores the struggles of women in the scientific community during the 1960s. It is a coming-of-age story that will resonate with anyone who has had to fight against societal expectations to pursue their dreams.

Garmus' writing style is engaging and immersive, and the novel's themes of love, gender discrimination, and pursuing one's passions make it a must-read for anyone who loves thought-provoking fiction. So, add "Lessons in Chemistry" to your reading list and get ready to be transported to a different time and place.