Read this: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Watch this: Lessons in Chemistry limited series on AppleTV+
Why We Made This Selection and Background Knowledge
Julie: The book was recommended to us by a family member for a long car ride. I believe when I first listened I already knew the show was in production.
Claire: Very little. Saw it around bookstagram a lot and then it seemed like news came out about it being adapted to a show right away.
Overall Opinion of the Book
Claire: I really liked it. So much so that I bought a physical copy for my “trophy shelf”. To be clear, I don’t like the things Elizabeth Zott had to go through, but I love the historical things and seeing people overcome their obstacles. I also love reading about women in STEM as a main character.
Julie: I liked it. I never hit a point where I wanted to quit it. After reading and reflecting, though, I wasn’t as over the moon about it as others. There were some things I was left scratching my head about.
Overall Opinion of the Show
Julie: I really enjoyed it. There were some changes they made that I liked and some that I didn’t. But, I liked the cinematography and the vibe. The pacing was good. The casting was great.
Claire: I liked it. I was a little so-so at first, but it definitely grew on me.
Before you say which you liked better, did you read the book or listen to the audiobook… because it matters.
Claire: Listened on Audible.
Julie: Listened. I actually really liked the narrator, Miranda Raison. Her voice was very comforting to me.
Which was better?
Julie: The show
Claire: The book
Ranking…
- Was the outcome the same in both the show and the book? Kind of
- Was the main character/primary narrator the same in the show and the book? Yes
- Was the primary conflict the same in the show and the book? Yes
- Would you read the book again or recommend it to a friend? Yes
- Would you watch the show/movie again or recommend it to a friend? Yes
Overall rating: 4.5/5
