Book Club Questions for Lessons in Chemistry

book club questions for lessons in chemistry

Absolutely! Here’s a selection of thought-provoking book club questions for Bonnie Garmus’s “Lessons in Chemistry”, covering various themes and angles:

Character Analysis

1. Elizabeth Zott is a complex and often contradictory character. Do you consider her a feminist icon, or are her actions sometimes problematic? Why or why not?
2. How does the relationship between Elizabeth and Calvin shape her journey? Do you find their love story believable?
3. Mad has a significant impact on Elizabeth’s life. What lessons does Elizabeth learn from their unique bond?
4. Walter is often overlooked, but arguably plays a vital role. How is fatherhood portrayed through him, and how does he serve as a foil to other male figures?

Themes and Motifs

book club questions for lessons in chemistry

1. “Lessons in Chemistry” delves into the challenges and sexism faced by women in the 1960s workplace. book club questions for lessons in chemistry How has the portrayal of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields changed or stayed the same since then?
2. The novel uses cooking and the TV show “Supper at Six” as unique tools for communicating science. book club questions for lessons in chemistry Did it change your perception of cooking, or of the way knowledge can be shared?
3. Found family features heavily in the novel. How does the book illustrate that family ties aren’t always bound by blood?
4. “Lessons in Chemistry” challenges societal expectations and conformity. Which character embodies defiance most strongly? Is there a moment where you felt a character made the wrong choice by conforming?

Discussions on Beliefs and Choices

1. Discuss Elizabeth’s stance on religion and societal expectations of motherhood. Do you agree with her views, or do they make her a difficult character to empathize with?
2. The book features characters grappling with grief, loss, and unwanted circumstances. Who do you think showcased the most resilience, and how did they do so?
3. Several characters take big risks to pursue their dreams or fight injustice. Which character’s risky actions did you admire the most? Any you felt were too reckless?
4. If you could ask Bonnie Garmus one question about the novel, what would it be?

Style and Storytelling

1. The book incorporates humor, scientific vocabulary, and vivid descriptions. Which element of Garmus’ writing style was most memorable to you?
2. Six the dog plays a significant role as a narrator. Did you find this element insightful, humorous, or even distracting at times?
3. Were you satisfied with the novel’s ending? Did it provide enough closure, or were you left wanting more?

book club questions for lessons in chemistry