21 Unique Lessons In Chemistry Book Club Questions

When I finished reading Lessons In Chemistry, I was eager to discuss with friends. I was in search for Lessons in Chemistry Book Club Questions. But upon searching I couldn’t find authentic and meaningful discussion questions. Hence why this list was compiled.

“Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus is a clever and empowering bestseller. Set in the 50s and 60s, it’s an empowering, funny and influential novel. It revolves around Elizabeth Zott, a former chemist and doctoral candidate at UCLA. She faces sexism and sexual assault at her workplace and ends up being fired. Through countless challenges and hardships, Elizabeth becomes a renowned cooking show host in Southern California.

If you’ve read this wonderful novel and have ideas, thoughts and expressions, then make a book club or join one to let your thoughts run wild. This article lays out 21 Lessons In Chemistry book club questions for you to discuss.

21 Lessons In Chemistry Book Club Questions

General Questions

1. What were you expecting from the book when you read the title “Lessons In Chemistry”?

2. This is Bonnie Garmus’s first novel, how did you hear about this book and what drew you in?

3. Who was your favourite character after finishing the novel?

4. Were there any characters you particularly liked or disliked? Why?

5. What did you think of the overall plot of “Lessons in Chemistry”? Did the story keep you engaged?

6. Were there any passages or quotes that stood out to you particularly?

7. Did the novel evoke any strong emotions in you? If so, which scenes were particularly powerful?

8. Were you satisfied with the ending of the story or would you have ended it differently? If so, then explain what it would be.

9. Would You recommend this book to your friends? Why or why not? And is there a type of person you know will love it?

Questions About Themes

10. Elizabeth faced countless instances of sexism and workplace abuse. Why do you think that was the case and is it different today or is it still similar?

11. Lessons in Chemistry has a large emphasis on women’s empowerment. What did you learn and gain from this story?

12. Sexism is a major theme within the book, give examples of how it is portrayed.

13. If this same scenario occurred in 2024, would that be acceptable and would there be major changes?

14. What was the symbolism of their dog named 6:30?

15. Rowing is mentioned within the book several times before the birth of Madeline and it helps Elizabeth with strength and endurance. What is the meaning behind it or what do you think it symbolizes?

16. Explain how each of these themes was portrayed through the novel; Grief, loss, motherhood, women and cooking

Questions About The Plot

17. What were your first thoughts of Calvin as he entered the scene?

18. Calvin loved Elizabeth and went as far as proposing to her. However, Elizabeth declined the proposal. What do you think was the reasoning behind it?

19. Calvin’s death was a turning point within the book, what impact did that have on Elizabeth and the choices she made after?

20. After Calvin’s unfortunate passing, Elizabeth discovers she’s pregnant. With everything going on in her life she feels unprepared. How do you think motherhood impacted Elizabeth?

21. Elizabeth went from being a renowned chemist to a cooking show host. What made her choose this path rather than continue being a chemist?

The Bottom Line

Lessons In Chemistry gained enormous praise and attention after its publication in early 2023. Due to its success, it was shortly adapted into a series on Apple TV with the first episode released on October 13, 2023.

If you enjoy the book then make sure to use these lessons in chemistry book club questions to enhance your understanding and open discussion. If you would like book club questions for another book, then suggest it down below.