Nostalgia Meets Reality: A Deep Dive into ‘Lessons in Chemistry’

Oct 12, 2023 | aging, books, culture, Health, politics, seniors, technology

The Not Old Better Show, Movie, and AppleTV+ Series Review

“Children, set the table; your mother needs a moment to herself.” Resilience, independence, and overcoming challenges are what Elizabeth Zott is all about!

Set in the early 1950s, “Lessons in Chemistry” follows Elizabeth Zott (played by Larson), whose dream of being a scientist is put on hold in a patriarchal society. When Elizabeth finds herself fired from her lab, she accepts a job as a host on a TV cooking show and sets out to teach a nation of overlooked housewives — and the men who are suddenly listening — a lot more than recipes.

Welcome to the Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast!  🎙️I’m your host; we’re broadcasting just outside of Washington DC and listening to a bit of swing music, and let me assure you, today’s episode is two-fer, and that’s always ‘twice as nice.’  Whether you’re a 60’s history buff and enthusiast of that time and culture like me, or simply someone who loves excellent TV shows and great books when combined right, you’ve tuned in at the perfect time.

Today, we’re diving into the Apple TV+ series “Lessons in Chemistry,” a captivating adaptation of Bonnie Garmus’s popular novel. Available on Apple Books. Starring Brie Larson as Elizabeth Zott, the show is a visual and thematic masterpiece that tackles complex societal issues. Set in the early 1950s, “Lessons in Chemistry” follows Elizabeth Zott (played by Larson), whose dream of being a scientist is put on hold in a patriarchal society. When Elizabeth finds herself fired from her lab, she accepts a job as a host on a TV cooking show and sets out to teach a nation of overlooked housewives — and the men who are suddenly listening — a lot more than recipes. 

🎯 Why You Can’t-Miss This Episode and Series 🎯

This book is teeming with rich content, and the TV show is lovely, too.  Thanks to all who helped with this episode.  Thanks to you, my wonderful Not Old Better Show audience on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe, and Let’s Talk About Better©, The Not Old Better Show.  Thanks, everybody, and we’ll see you next week.