Bonnie Garmus’ debut novel ‘Lessons In Chemistry’ is an inspiration to aspiring authors – not only becoming a bestseller but also being adapted to the screen on Apple TV+. Garmus, a woman who has worked in fields of technology, medicine and education, enjoys rowing (a pastime that main character Elizabeth Zott enjoys too), as well as open water swimming.

The novel revolves around Elizabeth Zott, a chemist struggling for equality in an all-male workforce at Hastings Research Institute in the early 1960s. She meets and falls in love with fellow scientist, Calvin Evans and just as she is progressing in both her professional and personal life, a tragic event leads her to become a single mother and coincidentally, the popular, though unconventional, host of a cooking show, Supper at Six, beloved by America. Not only does she juggle the trials of motherhood (with the support of her dog, her neighbour, her producer, and the doctor who delivered her baby), she challenges the inequality for women in America at the time, through the esteemed medium of cooking.

With heartbreaking and hilarious moments, this debut novel builds on a unique premise, whilst still being relatable for a reader. Lines like ‘that’s the hydrogen bond ladies – a chemical reminder that if things seem too good to be true, they probably are’, combine true chemistry knowledge with humour to create something entertaining and educational that young people and adults can enjoy. There’s chemistry, rowing, a TV show and a dog – what more could you possibly need?

It is no surprise such a book won Goodreads’ Best Debut Novel 2022 amongst other awards; it is well-plotted, full of likeable, developed characters and Garmus’ heartfelt tone is evident throughout. What she writes next is highly anticipated, to be sure.