Chemist Elizabeth Zott is not your average woman. In fact, Elizabeth Zott would be the first to point out that there is no such thing as an average woman. But it’s the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute takes a very unscientific view of equality. Except for one: Calvin Evans; the lonely, brilliant, Nobel–prize nominated grudge-holder who falls in love with—of all things—her mind. True chemistry results.

But like science, life is unpredictable. Which is why a few years later Elizabeth Zott finds herself not only a single mother, but the reluctant star of America’s most beloved cooking show Supper at Six. Elizabeth’s unusual approach to cooking (“combine one tablespoon acetic acid with a pinch of sodium chloride”) proves revolutionary. But as her following grows, not everyone is happy. Because as it turns out, Elizabeth Zott isn’t just teaching women to cook. She’s daring them to change the status quo.

A fun, interesting read. It was a little odd to settle into as it jumped into so many different points of view (including the dog’s), but once you get used to that it’s easier to read.

Often times historical fiction can be frustrating because of having to relive the inequalities and stupidity of so many in past eras. This book focuses specifically on the inequality of women in the 1940s-60s and a woman determined to reject them. Her resilience and determination is admirable, as is her support of the women in her circle.

Overall, I enjoyed this book, but it’s representation of Christianity did frustrate and sadden me. Yes, there are people who are more concerned with religious rituals than with understanding Scripture and a real faith in Christ, but in this book ALL the “Christians” were terrible people with no real desire to understand the Bible or live by it. I’m not a fan of “all” characters of a race/religion/gender/profession being portrayed as exactly the same. That was the frustrating part.

As a Christian, it saddened me that the author seems unaware that any other types of Christian might exist. There truly are loving, caring, honest Christians in the world; it’s sad to me that none of them made it into this book.

Again, I did enjoy this book overall–interesting characters and unique circumstances provided a good book.

Rated PG-13/R for some swearing (including a few f-bombs), violence (assault), and adult situations.

Get your copy here!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.