I want to start this review by thinking that I’ve read some fantastic books this year that I gave 5 stars. Now after reading this crazy book I was wrong. From this point on, my 5 star readings are measured against this book – it’s my 5 star barometer!
Elizabeth Zott was a 1960’s chemist, the only problem was everyone else thought she wasn’t! Her male colleagues don’t take her seriously, just seeing her as a woman with above average ideas. Although they are both threatened by their size and are more than happy to steal their creations. In addition to Calvin Evans, he was also a chemist and was known for his great achievements in science. Calvin never looked down on Elizabeth, and they began a beautiful relationship that would stand the test of time.

The novel follows the twists and turns of the life of heroine Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant researcher tired of being second-class simply because she is a woman.

Elizabeth is a first-rate research chemist, but can’t be treated as an equal [let alone praised for being better than almost everyone in her department], and if they demote her, the department head steals her work and puts it in Published as her own work, she was over.

She met her soul mate, Calvin Evans, who saw her as an equal partner and recognized her talent. They had a dog, and Calvin asked him what he wanted to name it. She looked at her watch and said, “It’s half past five,” and it did. This represents their stubborn, rational approach to everyday nonsense like women should wear comfortable clothes and all the other ridiculous social “rules”.

What a chemical reaction I had with this work. It blew me out of the water. Really reminded me of the story telling style of John Irving, a well told tale, full of quirky characters that’s as entertaining as hell. Fair play to the novelist, a successful career behind her and an even more promising one ahead.
Highly recommended.

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