Printable Book Club Questions for Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

What is your overall impression of Elizabeth as a protagonist? Why was chemistry the right career choice for her?
She enters a male-dominated field and it’s a constant uphill battle. Have you ever worked in a field like that and/or been in a similar type situation? Could you relate to what Elizabeth went through?
How did her unusual upbringing and violate relationship with her parents impact how she approached relationships as an adult?
What did you think about the eventual romance between Elizabeth and Calvin? Why were they a good fit, aka, full of ‘true chemistry’?
Calvin proposes but Elizabeth says no. What was behind her reasoning for turning down the proposal?
Why do you suspect the author decided to include the viewpoint of their dog, Six-Thirty?
Let’s talk about Calvin’s death and how that changed everything for Elizabeth.
When Elizabeth finds out she’s pregnant, she’s less than thrilled. She never planned to become a mother and with Calvin’s death, she’s now all alone to raise their child. In what ways did motherhood surprise Elizabeth?
The story features a great supporting cast from the neighbor Harriet (who eventually becomes like an extended family member) to Elizabeth’s producer Walter (who becomes her best friend). Who was your favorite supporting character and why?
Why did Elizabeth agree to host the cooking show? Why did the show resonate with women across the country?
Why did Elizabeth eventually leave the cooking show?
What are your thoughts about the reveal that Calvin’s real life mother was the one behind the funds to Elizabeth’s scientific research?
What did you think about the ending overall? What happens next for Elizabeth?
Did you feel like you learned any lessons or anything else from reading the novel? Do you have any favorite passages or scenes you would like to discuss?