Chemistry by Weike Wang

Chemistry follows an unnamed narrator who is three years into her post-grad studies in chemistry and a long-term relationship. As she questions her passion for her work and faces immense pressure from her Chinese parents, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery. The novel is praised for its humor and unique perspective on love, ambition, and the complexities of family dynamics. Weike Wang, the author, brings her own background in chemistry and public health to the story, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative. The book has been celebrated for its distinctive voice and emotional depth, making it a standout in contemporary fiction.

Reviews

Rhapsody in Books · 2017-09-08

engaging 4.50

The book is well-written, with metaphorical themes cleverly reflected in the plot, making it a unique and engaging read. The protagonist's voice is distinctive and appealing, adding depth to the narrative.

The book is well-written, with metaphorical themes cleverly reflected in the plot, making it a unique and engaging read. The protagonist's voice is distinctive and appealing, adding depth to the narrative. The author's ability to weave complex themes into the story is impressive, making the book a thought-provoking and enjoyable experience. The protagonist's struggles and self-discovery are portrayed with sensitivity and insight, making the book a compelling exploration of personal and professional dilemmas.

Quick quotes

This book is well-written, with a number of metaphorical themes suggested by the title cleverly reflected by the plot.

But the main reason to read this book is the voice of the narrator.

It is her voice—distinctive and appealing—that makes this novel.

BookTrib · 2017-08-15

delightful 4.00

The book is a delightful blend of science and humor, with an engaging and humorous narrative that makes it a standout read. The protagonist's journey is both relatable and entertaining, making the book a joy to read.

The book is a delightful blend of science and humor, with an engaging and humorous narrative that makes it a standout read. The protagonist's journey is both relatable and entertaining, making the book a joy to read. The author's use of humor and wit adds a unique layer to the story, making it a refreshing departure from typical literary fiction. The protagonist's struggles and triumphs are portrayed with a light-hearted touch, making the book a enjoyable and uplifting experience.

Quick quotes

I was pleasantly surprised at how much I loved the book Chemistry!

Author Weike Wang's unnamed narrator, a Chinese-American Ph.D. student, lives a life that is both relatable and entertaining.

The book is a delightful blend of science and humor.

The New York Times · 2017-06-02

thoughtful 3.50

The novel is a poignant exploration of an intelligent woman's journey to find her place in the world, with minimal action but rich introspection. The narrative's depth and the protagonist's struggles make it a compelling read.

The novel is a poignant exploration of an intelligent woman's journey to find her place in the world, with minimal action but rich introspection. The narrative's depth and the protagonist's struggles make it a compelling read. The protagonist's internal conflicts and the author's ability to convey them resonate deeply, making the book a thought-provoking experience. The novel's strength lies in its ability to capture the essence of personal and professional dilemmas, making it relatable to many readers.

Quick quotes

"Chemistry" is a novel about an intelligent woman trying to find her place in the world.

It has only the smallest pinches of action but generous measures of introspection.

The novel's strength lies in its ability to capture the essence of personal and professional dilemmas.

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