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A review by hann_cant_read
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
dark
emotional
funny
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
Okay. So. I loved it, but I can definitely understand the criticism.
Is it historically accurate? no. Is it scientifically accurate? also no. Should it have been marketed as a comedy? Absolutely not. It has funny moments absolutely but the overarching theme of sexism and abuse are deeply embedded in very not-funny ways.
I have it sorted as lit fic, but it's almost a little fantastical. Not actually fantasy, but the vibe feels very "Ella Enchanted" or "My Lady Jane" but without the magic. Personally, I love it but I can see why that's not everyone's cup of tea - especially coupled with such dark themes.
Luckily I don't have triggers, but the detailed rape scene pretty early on was still extremely jarring. (That's, again, more of a problem with the marketing than the actual book itself though)
For the things I did love:
Elizabeth was a flawed character. She was incredibly smart, but also sometimes a little dumb. Stubborn to her own detriment, but so funny. She didn't love often but when she did she loved so deeply.
I loved the character growth, specifically of her female friends and how those relationships really developed over time.
Six-thirty. My absolute favorite character.
Is it historically accurate? no. Is it scientifically accurate? also no. Should it have been marketed as a comedy? Absolutely not. It has funny moments absolutely but the overarching theme of sexism and abuse are deeply embedded in very not-funny ways.
I have it sorted as lit fic, but it's almost a little fantastical. Not actually fantasy, but the vibe feels very "Ella Enchanted" or "My Lady Jane" but without the magic. Personally, I love it but I can see why that's not everyone's cup of tea - especially coupled with such dark themes.
Luckily I don't have triggers, but the detailed rape scene pretty early on was still extremely jarring. (That's, again, more of a problem with the marketing than the actual book itself though)
For the things I did love:
Elizabeth was a flawed character. She was incredibly smart, but also sometimes a little dumb. Stubborn to her own detriment, but so funny. She didn't love often but when she did she loved so deeply.
I loved the character growth, specifically of her female friends and how those relationships really developed over time.
Six-thirty. My absolute favorite character.
Graphic: Rape
Moderate: Sexism and Suicide
Minor: Sexual assault