Lessons in Chemistry

Between the hype, the cover, the era, and science being a huge part of the plot, I was so pumped for this book. I wanted to love it. I tried to love it. Alas, I was greatly disappointed.

Things started off okay. I wasn't super into it but I saw potential. Around page 150, I gave up hope. I didn't like Elizabeth, I didn't care much for Calvin, and while the Six-Thirty plot line was endearing, I wasn't a fan of the large chunks told in his POV. It threw off the story's rhythm, which I already wasn't taking to. 

While I read the beginning in-depth, I completely skimmed the second half. Elizabeth's holier-than-thou attitude wore thin, which I realize is an ironic term to use with so much belittling of people with any religious affiliation (more on this in a moment). I like reading historical fiction that captures the era in which it's set. In many ways this book did, but with so much influence from the ideals of today. Some of the examples of sexism felt greatly exaggerated as well, though it's difficult to articulate why without having to mark this down for spoilers. 

Back to the book's issue with religion... I know going into a story like this that faith (or lack thereof) is going to be mentioned at least a few times. That's okay. However, some passages/scenes here went beyond what beliefs the characters hold and questioning why other people might think a certain way. It was offensive. Yes, I am a Christian. No, I do not inherently dislike books that challenge or exclude religion or illustrate horrible things that have happened among certain authorities and certain organizations. In this case, it was not about dealing with these issues. So much implied that these behaviors are those of everyone as well as the ‘pointlessness' and ‘uninformed' nature of it all. It was in poor taste, and I would maintain these feelings if the tables were turned. 

I'm disappointed that I didn't enjoy the book. I made a valiant effort to overlook what I didn't like but there wasn't much I walked away with. And for a book marketed as a comedy of sorts, there were far too many depressing scenes to be considered lighthearted.