Chemistry, believes Elizabeth Zott, is all about change. This remarkable protagonist, a pioneering scientist-turned-celebrity chef in early 1960s America, wants to change the world through her research. But, following an onslaught of sexism and a personal tragedy, she becomes an unlikely daytime TV favourite instead – only she’s dishing out advice on how women can find their own power alongside casseroles and brownies. Her catchphrase is “Children, set the table. Your mother needs a moment to herself.”
This triumphant feminist fable is the debut of California-born, London-based copywriter Bonnie Garmus, and it’s already been optioned by Apple TV, with Brie Larson set to star. Garmus, who dedicates the book to her mother, says she was inspired by that generation of trapped, undervalued housewives. She’s created a fascinating riposte in Elizabeth: an arresting mix of Marie Curie, Julia Child and Gloria Steinem. She views society with ruthless logic and so is constantly baffled by its rampant inequality. Why should she, a brilliant researcher, earn less or be disrespected simply because she’s a woman? Surely scientists should be more rational.
Elizabeth has a colourful, unconventional family too: precocious daughter Madeleine, grudge-holding fellow chemist and lover Calvin, and, in a magical-realist touch, hyper-intelligent dog Six-Thirty, who has his own inner monologue. It’s either thoroughly charming or too cute by half, depending on your preference. But then Garmus frequently moves between authenticity and escapism. There are harrowing accounts of prejudice and abuse; one monster is essentially a 1960s Harvey Weinstein. Yet this wittily observed book is also teeming with vivid comic set-pieces, like Elizabeth’s producer despairing as she throws out the script on live TV. And, if there are some improbable victories, those joyful moments feel more or less earned thanks to Garmus’s winning formula.
Lessons in Chemistry is published by Doubleday at £14.99. To order your copy for £12.99 call 0844 871 1514 or visit the Telegraph Bookshop
