A Goodreads user asked Bonnie Garmus:

I am a chemist trained at Berkeley, I am intrigued yet scared. I have been burned by so many chemists in literature...especially depictions of women. But its sad my 90s experience was probably the same as this from the blurb, and as that of Ellen Swallow Richards, one assumes. I'm probably really the target audience, yet scared of reliving that mess. Thoughts? FWIW I'm a great cook and lived by Julia's house, lol

Bonnie Garmus All I can tell you is, so far chemists really seem to love the book (which makes me incredibly happy). Whenever I go to an event, chemists are almost always in the audience. They often mention how delighted they are to be represented in literature as they actually are: smart people (women!) seeking real answers. The protagonist of the book, Elizabeth Zott, does not back down when faced with sexism. The book has humor, but serious themes run throughout. And just so you know, it was proofed for accuracy by two PhD women chemists. If you do read it, let me know what you think!

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