Books Like Lessons in Chemistry
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus has spent over a year on the New York Times best-seller list. It was chosen as Amazon’s best book of 2022 and was even turned into a mini series on Apple TV in 2023. If you have read it, it’s likely you loved it and are looking for more books like Lessons in Chemistry.
The story of women in the workplace fighting for their place is very relatable. In the 1950s, this was almost unheard of; yet Elizabeth Zott did just that. She is a quirky character whom I loved and cheered for.
There are so many aspects of the book that combine to make a book-lover’s dream. It is the kind of book that almost everybody loves- even if they are not a huge fan of historical fiction. I wanted to make a list of fantastic books similar to Lessons in Chemistry to cure your book hangover.
The Best Books Like Lessons in Chemistry
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
The Best Book Like Lessons in Chemistry About Women in the Workplace
The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict- Jump to Section
The Best Fiction Book Like Lessons in Chemistry
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman- Jump to Section
Best Nonfiction Book Like Lessons in Chemistry
Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly – Jump to Section
Best Celebrity Book Club Pick Like Lessons in Chemistry
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid- Jump to Section
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Books Like Lessons in Chemistry: Women in the Workplace
Meet the Newmans
Author: Jennifer Niven
Year: 2026
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author
Age Range: 16+
Plot
The Newmans, Del, Dinah, and their sons, have been America’s Favorite Family on television for two decades. By 1964, the ratings were dropping, and the picture-perfect family seemed to be out of touch with real family life. When Del is in a car accident, Dinah has to hire someone to help write the final episode. Juliet is young and full of ideas that are very different from what Dinah envisions. Will the Newmans be able to change TV history, or will they be canceled before they have a chance?
Trigger Warnings
Sexism, Car Accident
Why Kirsten loves it
It’s hard to explain how much I loved this book. Dinah coming into her own, the kids finding themselves, even Del eventually finding his way in a new world, it all came together in a story that was thoughtful and fun. I would love to see this turned into an adaptation of some kind because of the costumes and settings alone! The narrators were wonderful and really elevated the story. Gifted by MacMillan Audio
Find this book in: Books like Lessons in Chemistry / Books Set in the 60s
The Other Einstein
Author: Marie Benedict
Year: 2016
Genre: Historical Fiction
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
The story of Mileva Maric is an absolutely fascinating one that has not been told. This book gives a glimpse into the life of Albert Einstein’s wife who was a brilliant physicist that contributed to the special theory of relativity. How much of a role she actually played has been debated for years.
It is clear from the letters that Albert Einstein wrote, he was a horrible husband and this book brings him into a new light. It is a shame that his first wife, Mileva, a brilliant scientist herself, is a mere footnote in history.
Why Kirsten loves it
I like the way the story was written and it will certainly bring about a lively discussion as a book club book.
Why Jackie loves it
I never knew that Mileva was a brilliant physicist. I loved reading her story- especially the way Benedict writes.
Find this book in: Books About Women in STEM / Books Like Lessons in Chemistry
Switchboard Soldiers
Author: Jennifer Chiaverini
Year: 2022
Genre: Historical Fiction
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I’ve been reading WWI books non-stop because I’m fascinated by the way modern warfare met traditional tactics in the Great War. I’m particularly interested in the role women played in helping the Allies.
Chiaverini brought the Switchboard soldiers (the women who operated the telephone lines) to life in the most interesting way.
Why Kirsten loves it
I loved their bonds of sisterhood, how they stayed cool under pressure, and learning just how crucial they were to the war effort.
Why Jackie loves it
This book fascinated me. I loved learning about these women who had such a pivitol role in WWI
Find this book in: Historical Fiction Books / Books Like Lessons in Chemistry / Best Books of 2022 / Books Like The Alice Network / WWI Novels
Whisper Network
Author: Chandler Baker
Year: 2019
Genre: Fiction
More info: July 2019 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Sloane, Ardie, Grace, and Rosalita have worked at Truviv, Inc. for years. The sudden death of Truviv’s CEO means their boss, Ames, will likely take over the entire company. Each of the women has a different relationship with Ames, who has always been surrounded by whispers about how he treats women. Those whispers have been ignored, swept under the rug, and hidden away by those in charge.
But the world has changed, and women are watching this promotion differently. This time, when they find out Ames is making an inappropriate move on a colleague, they aren’t willing to let it go. This time, they’ve decided enough is enough.
Why Kirsten loves it
This contemporary fiction pick is a perfect read for anyone who feels unseen and unheard. It felt so timely.
Find this book in: Books About Women in the Workplace / The Best Books of 2019 / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2019
This Book is Perfect For: Exciting Ideas and Themes for an Office Book Club
Plot
I was interested to read this book about a housewife turned female informant for the FBI. I went in interested to learn about the government’s efforts to root out Communism in the 50s but stayed to understand Katharina’s story.
Trigger Warnings
Alcoholism, Miscarriage
Why Kirsten loves it
I loved seeing Katharina find herself through her undercover work, but sometimes those scenes of her life at home were hard to read about because I came to despise her husband.
Find this book in: Historical Thrillers / Books Like Lessons in Chemistry / Ultimate Thrillers / Books About Women in the Workplace / Books About Female Spies
Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk
Author: Kathleen Rooney
Year: 2017
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: National Indie Bestseller
Age Range: 14+
Plot
This book could be an amazing movie. It is not the type of book that you “can’t put down” because it takes place on New Year’s Eve 1984 with flashbacks from the Jazz Age all the way to the AIDS epidemic. But, it is an incredibly interesting and very well-written New Year’s Eve book.
Lillian Boxfish takes the reader with her through a look at New York City through the ages. She starts off writing copy for R.H. Macy’s and becomes one of the highest-paid advertising women in the country.
Now, at 85 years old, she is still as savvy as she ever was and is determined to make the most of her time. Breaking the boundaries of what was expected of a woman was Lillian’s thing and makes this book perfect for anyone looking for books like Lessons in Chemistry.
Trigger Warnings
Suicide
Why Jackie loves it
This is such a unique book that is so character-driven. It is a delightful read. Lillian is a wonderful character who has so much depth.
Find this book in: Books Like Lessons in Chemistry / Books with Food in the Title / New Year’s Eve Books / Books Set in New York / Books With Flowers in the Title / Books with Older Protagonists
Fiction Books Similar to Lessons in Chemistry
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine
Author: Gail Honeyman
Year: 2017
Genre: Fiction
More info: June 2107 Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick
Age Range: 14+
Plot
I wasn’t sure how I felt about this contemporary fiction book initially. Initially, Eleanor’s behavior and responses to people and situations upset me. I had the outside perspective of a reader to understand how Eleanor is misinterpreting situations. She is not supposed to be likable initially which is why I persevered and ended up loving the book and Eleanor.
Eleanor has difficulty with social skills and is used to being alone until one day, she saves an elderly man who has fallen with the help of Raymond from her work. The three develop a friendship that helps Eleanor heal.
Trigger Warnings
Loneliness
Why Jackie likes it
As we get to know Eleanor and understand her profound loneliness, it made me think about what initial judgments I make in other areas. Eleanor is able to find herself and understand herself in this wonderful, feel-good book.
Why Kirsten loves it
If you love a character-driven novel, this is the book for you. Eleanor changes so much from the beginning of the story to the end, I loved taking the journey with her.
Find this book in: Books Like A Man Called Ove/ Books About Scotland / British Books / Books With Neurodivergent Characters / Best Books Like Lessons in Chemistry / Ultimate List of Feel-Good Books / Amnesia Books
Find books like this in: Books Like Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine
Plot
Germaine has lost her job at an insurance company and begins working at a helpline for senior citizens. The mayor has a side project for Germaine. She wants Germaine to help her in the feud between the golf club and the senior citizen center. Sometimes, as Germaine will find out, things are not always what they seem.
Why Jackie likes it
I started reading this book and found that I had a really hard time putting it down. It is one of those books where the main character is completely imperfect and often infuriating but, will grow on you!
Find this book in: Books Like Lessons in Chemistry / Books Like Eleanor Oliphant
The Maid
Author: Nita Prose
Year: 2022
Genre: Mystery
More info: January 2022 Good Morning America Pick
#1 New York Times Bestseller, EDGAR AWARD Finalist, Anthony Award Winner
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Molly Gray works as a maid in a grand hotel and gets joy from leaving things orderly and pristine. Molly struggles with reading social cues and has had even more trouble since her gran can no longer help.
When Molly finds the body of Mr. Black in a room at the hotel, she becomes a prime suspect and will need all her friends to help her. She calls her friend, Mr. Preston, the doorman at the hotel, for help. His daughter is a lawyer. Soon, it becomes clear that Molly, in her naivete, is involved in a drug scandal as well.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved the description of this book and I hoped it would live up to my expectations. It did that and more. I adored every minute of this story and closed the last page smiling. Molly is such a wonderful character who has more depth than is apparent initially.
Find this book in: Books like Lessons in Chemistry / Best Mystery Books / Feel-Good Books / Books for Book Clubs / Best Cozy Mystery Books / Books With Neurodivergent Characters
With the Fire on High
Author: Elizabeth Acevedo
Year: 2019
Genre: YA Fiction
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 13+
Plot
This story is set in Philly (which I love) and features a Black woman of Caribbean descent who is entering her senior year of college. Emoni wants to be a world-class chef but struggles with pursuing her passions in the kitchen while balancing the responsibilities of having a toddler.
Trigger Warnings
Racism
Why Kirsten loves it
After hearing a lot about this particular coming-of-age story, I quickly snatched it up, and let me tell you, the hype is real. It’s a true coming-of-age story that is as delicious to devour as the many recipes described in the book.
Why Jackie loves it
This book reminds me of Lessons in Chemistry because the two main characters have so much in common. Both are trying to balance career and parenthood and both are chefs!
Find this book in: Books Like Lessons in Chemistry / Coming-of-age Books for Teens / Books set in High School / Fun Books for Teens
Non-Fiction Books Similar to Lessons in Chemistry
Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Woman Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race
Author: Margot Lee Shetterly
Year: 2016
Genre: Nonfiction
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This true and amazing story is about Black female mathematicians and their role in the space race. So many people know this story because of the movie but, the book gives so many more details.
These women, who were originally sent to teach math in the South’s segregated schools, were called into service during WWII. They were some of the most brilliant minds of their generation. They eventually helped in the race to space during the Cold War.
Trigger Warnings
Racism, Sexism
Why Jackie loves it
When I read this book, years before the movie came out, I couldn’t put it down. I was mesmerized by what these overlooked women had gone through as they worked to help their country.
Find this book in: Feel Good Nonfiction Books / Black History Book List / Books Like Lessons in Chemistry / Best Nonfiction Books / Books About Women in STEM
Code Girls: The Untold Story of the American Women Code Breakers of World War II
Author: Liza Mundy
Year: 2017
Genre: Nonfiction
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This fascinating book tells the story of the code girls, the women who worked to decode messages during WWII. They worked incredibly hard to save the men on the frontlines, yet their work has been largely overlooked. Mundy shines a light on their story, which was almost lost completely.
Trigger Warnings
War, Sexism
Why Kirsten loves it
I’m not generally a huge non-fiction reader unless the topic is of particular interest to me. Having seen the Imitation Game and read quite a few non-fiction books about coding in war times, I thought this one would be interesting and it did not disappoint. I loved finding out about the trials and tribulations of the real-life heroes of the war that we rarely hear about.
Find this book in: Good Nonfiction Books for Beginners / Books like Lessons in Chemistry / Books about WWII / Books about Female Spies / Books About Women in STEM / Books Like The Alice Network
The Queens of Animation
Author: Nathalia Holt
Year: 2019
Genre: Nonfiction
Age Range: 18+
Special Info: April 2025 Beyond the Bookends Book Club Pick
Plot
This nonfiction old Hollywood book sheds light on the talent of Disney’s pioneering female animators and the struggles they faced in a male-dominated field. I loved learning about these incredible women – like Mary Blair who created the art for the “It’s a Small World” ride.
Why Kirsten loves it
I was appalled by the disparate treatment female in the animation field received, but I was also impressed by their gumption. The author does a tremendous job of showing their struggles but also how these women shaped animation as we know it. I was heartened to see just how far they have come. The book ends with Frozen and you can see the studio’s growth.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved reading about these women and how they shaped animation! I am a huge Disney fan, so everything about this intrigues me. I was equally upset by the struggles these talented women had to endure strictly because they were women (although I shouldn’t have been shocked).
Find this book in: Good Nonfiction Books for Beginners / Old Hollywood Books / Books like Lessons in Chemistry / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read
Finding Freedom: A Cook’s Story
Author: Erin French
Year: 2021
Genre: Memoir
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 16+
Plot
My first celebrity chef memoir was not at all what I was expecting and I loved it! I found myself thinking of Erin as a friend while reading this story. I rooted for her, cried with her, and had so many food cravings it bordered on ridiculous. How can you not want to eat the delicious concoctions described on the page?
I was not anticipating that this would be a story about redemption, finding inner strength, and perseverance, but that’s what it was. Erin clawed her way to the top of the restaurant game only to find herself at rock bottom. Then, she did it again. It’s a story of a mother’s love, a woman overcoming addiction, and a damn good cook who finds herself planting roots where she least expected it.
Trigger Warnings
Addiction, Suicidal thoughts
Why Kirsten loves it
I hope someday that I will be able to eat in her famed kitchen if just to have wine recommended by her mom and see her surrounded by the love of her kitchen family.
Find this book in: Books Like Lessons in Chemistry / Celebrity Memoirs / Beach Reads 2021
Celebrity Books Club Books Like Lessons in Chemistry
Atmosphere
Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid
Year: 2025
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: June 2025 Good Morning America Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Joan is a professor of physics and astronomy at Rice University, and she sees an advertisement for women to join the NASA space shuttle program. She applies and is chosen from thousands of applicants. She begins training in the summer of 1980 and forms deep friendships with the other astronauts in the program.
In December 1984, everything changed on mission STS-LR9. The book alternates between Joan’s application to the space program and her years of training, and the present mission in which there is an accident in space with Joan at mission control.
Why Jackie loves it
This book sucked me in from the first page. It’s crazy to think how far we have come in some ways and how stagnant we are in others. The amount of sexism that these women had to overcome to be in the space program felt personal but not exaggerated. #gifted
Adaptation
Before the book was even released, it was announced that Laika Studios would be turning it into a movie. Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck are set to direct.
Find this book in: Taylor Jenkins Reid Books Ranked / Books Like Lesson in Chemistry / Beach Reads 2025/ Books Set in the 80s / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2025 / Books Becoming TV Shows / Books About Women in STEM
Remarkably Bright Creatures
Author: Shelby Van Pelt
Year: 2022
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
More info: May 2022 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick
Instant New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 12+
Plot
I haven’t read a novel with as much heart as this one in quite some time. Elderly, recently widowed Tova loves her job cleaning the aquarium in town in the quiet of the night, especially because of her fondness for Marcellus, the octopus. She finds solace in the aquarium as it makes her feel closer to her son, Erik – a marine life lover – who disappeared on a boat when he was 18.
But when she hurts herself and is unable to return to work at full capacity, she grows close with her replacement, Cameron, a young man who newly arrived in town looking for his birth mother.
Meanwhile, Marcellus knows what happened to Erik and he wants to help Tova find the closure she needs. His narration is interspersed with Tova and Cameron’s for a story that is compelling, heartwarming, and utterly unique.
I will be shoving this book into the hands of everyone who asks for a book recommendation because it’s my favorite book of 2022
Why Jackie loves it
This book has more heart than any book I have read in a long time. The unique perspective of a grumpy octopus may seem silly, but is brilliantly done and adds a unique perspective.
Why Kirsten loves it
The themes in this book, the plot, and the characters- especially Marcellus- really tugged at my heartstrings. I loved that Marcellus added some laughter and made me smile. I recently gave this book to my son and he adored it as much as I did.
Adaptation
The Netflix adaptation starring Sally Field finished filming in 2025. The movie, directed by Olivia Newman, is set to premiere in 2026.
Find this book in: Ultimate List of Feel-Good Books / Contemporary Fiction Books / Best Book Club Books / Best Read With Jenna Books / Read with Jenna Book Club List 2022 / Books Becoming Movies / The Best Audiobooks of All Time
Expert Tip
There are many aspects of Lessons in Chemistry to Love. If you are trying to pick a book like it, here are some things to take into account.
- Do you love books about women in the workplace?
- Do you love to read fiction?
- Are you looking for a celebrity book club pick?
- Would you prefer a nonfiction that reads like fiction?
Frequently Asked Questions
What Books Like Lessons in Chemistry Should I Read Next?
If you are looking for books similar to Lessons in Chemistry, these are our top 5 picks
1. The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict
2. The Maid by Nita Prose
3. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
4. Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly
5. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Related Content
Epilogue
Which books similar to Lessons in Chemistry will you read?
