What do you think?
Rate this book
Biology Lessons
Biology Lessons is a heartfelt and profound contemporary young adult novel about the strength and importance of female friendship in a time when bodily autonomy is outlawed, from acclaimed author Melissa Kantor.Grace Williams has her future all mapped out. A high school senior in her beloved state of Texas, Grace plans to move to New York after graduation to study at Barnard College, and maybe, someday, win a Nobel Prize in biology. When she's asked to tutor Jack Nelson, the star baseball player who's flunking bio, she thinks it'll be just another activity to list on her college application. Studying turns to flirting, flirting becomes secret hook ups, and despite her expertise in bio, Grace gets pregnant. In a state where abortion is illegal, with parents who would expect her to keep the baby, Grace’s future is over before it’s begun.With no one else to turn to, Grace must rely on her best friends, Addie and Sebastian, but anti-abortion laws put anyone who helps Grace in grave danger, and anyone they encounter might be an informant. When Grace finds a phone number and an offer of help scrawled in a bathroom stall, the three friends hatch a plan to sneak Grace across state lines. The risks to people she loves and those who have befriended her terrify Grace, but with Addie and Sebastian by her side, at least she isn't alone.A love letter to hometowns, New York, and infinite possibilities, Biology Lessons showcases the transformative power of friendship in a world where choice is something you have to fight for.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published January 14, 2025
19 people are currently reading
654 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
January 27, 2025
Biology Lessons was probably one of my most anticipated reads of 2025 and unfortunately while I enjoyed some aspects of it, I think it faltered in quite a few different areas. 2.5 Stars
What Worked: I appreciated that readers get to experience what the emotional and mental toll looks like for individuals who are no longer able to choose what they can and cannot do with their bodies. Grace goes through so many ups and downs and struggles with how an abortion will or will not impact her in the present and in the future. There are familial influences but also ideas of what Grace wants to do with her life like moving to New York for college. Kantor also did a great job highlighting the various experiences women have when it comes to discussing bodily autonomy and the right to choose. The friendship between Grace and Addie was beautiful, but I wanted a little more interaction and inclusion of Sebastian beyond his involvement with the abortion.
What Didn't Work: I don't think this novel did enough development in the background and left quite a few unanswered questions. While Kantor did an excellent job illustrating the emotional and mental experiences of Grace, the contemporary world itself made things confusing. First, Grace is an extremely intelligent and gifted character. As a reader, I was confused as to why she didn't know that abortion was banned in the state of Texas. While this does immolate various aspects of our contemporary world, Kantor added elements like "bounty hunters" with little to no explanation. These individuals were rewarded for telling on individuals suspected of illegally getting an abortion; however, Kantor doesn't adequately explain what that means and how communities in the US got to this point. Grace also comes from a conservative family that clearly doesn't share her social views even those that go beyond abortion; however, I don't think these views are fleshed out or thoroughly challenged. They felt underdeveloped. There is also supposed to be this "love letter to home" which for Grace is Texas. She clearly has conflicting feelings about the state, but I don't think Kantor spent enough time figuring out these pieces and parts to this theme either. Honestly, for all the things that I think Kantor did well with capturing the emotional aspects of this very timely topic, the bar was missed in terms of character development as well as world development.
To be fair, I think that Kantor is presenting a timely conversation about the impact of the repeal of Roe V. Wade, but I don't feel like this novel was developed well as a whole. If readers are seeking the emotional repercussions of it then it may work, but outside of that this definitely needed more work.
What Worked: I appreciated that readers get to experience what the emotional and mental toll looks like for individuals who are no longer able to choose what they can and cannot do with their bodies. Grace goes through so many ups and downs and struggles with how an abortion will or will not impact her in the present and in the future. There are familial influences but also ideas of what Grace wants to do with her life like moving to New York for college. Kantor also did a great job highlighting the various experiences women have when it comes to discussing bodily autonomy and the right to choose. The friendship between Grace and Addie was beautiful, but I wanted a little more interaction and inclusion of Sebastian beyond his involvement with the abortion.
What Didn't Work: I don't think this novel did enough development in the background and left quite a few unanswered questions. While Kantor did an excellent job illustrating the emotional and mental experiences of Grace, the contemporary world itself made things confusing. First, Grace is an extremely intelligent and gifted character. As a reader, I was confused as to why she didn't know that abortion was banned in the state of Texas. While this does immolate various aspects of our contemporary world, Kantor added elements like "bounty hunters" with little to no explanation. These individuals were rewarded for telling on individuals suspected of illegally getting an abortion; however, Kantor doesn't adequately explain what that means and how communities in the US got to this point. Grace also comes from a conservative family that clearly doesn't share her social views even those that go beyond abortion; however, I don't think these views are fleshed out or thoroughly challenged. They felt underdeveloped. There is also supposed to be this "love letter to home" which for Grace is Texas. She clearly has conflicting feelings about the state, but I don't think Kantor spent enough time figuring out these pieces and parts to this theme either. Honestly, for all the things that I think Kantor did well with capturing the emotional aspects of this very timely topic, the bar was missed in terms of character development as well as world development.
To be fair, I think that Kantor is presenting a timely conversation about the impact of the repeal of Roe V. Wade, but I don't feel like this novel was developed well as a whole. If readers are seeking the emotional repercussions of it then it may work, but outside of that this definitely needed more work.
June 18, 2024
This book made me mad. Mad that women around the US have to worry about whether or not they can safely get a abortion because in many states they can not. This book is a timely one. One that unfortunately needed to be written (even though I wish it didn't). Although fiction this book will be a great resource for women out there who need to know they are not alone someone will always be out there to help them. This one is a powerful one and I'm grateful I got the chance to read it.
January 29, 2025
Wow. This is a short book, but it packs a powerful punch. Such a timely topic, especially as I write this while watching a discussion on reproductive justice during a cabinet hearing today. Feel free to not read this whole review, but know I highly recommend every person to read this book to understand the struggle that millions of women are facing in our country today. And if it makes you angry or bothered? It's doing it's job.
This book is going to be controversial. It shouldn't be, but it will be, based on everything going on in the country since the overturn of Roe v. Wade. I will not use this platform to discuss my views and stances on this subject, though most people already know where I stand, especially since I picked up a book like this. But this book is a compelling view of abortion from a young adult living in a state where every form of it is banned. Reading her fictional but realistic journey reminded me how lucky and privileged I am to live in the state I do.
I found the interviews at the end about reproductive rights and reproductive justice to be fascinating and a must read for everyone. I borrowed this from the library, but I will be purchasing this to just re-read those alone. I never do this but here are some quotes that I am still thinking about since I finished this book late last night.
"How had being pregnant turned me from a law-abiding citizen who just wanted to go to college to a girl who had to watch what she googled and lie to her period app, because someone might use those things to prove she was a criminal?"
"A woman in Mississippi had tried to give herself an abortion and died of an embolism. A teenage girl in Kansas had gotten sepsis and died after trying to self-abort. A woman with a wanted pregnancy had died after the doctors wouldn't abort her ectopic pregnancy and it burst. Death. Murder. Prosecution. Blood. Infection. Everything I googled ended in horror. Nothing made the laws change."
"It's madness that the women in your life can't tell you about their abortions as freely as they'd tell you about their weddings or their first jobs or their babies."
"I thought about the pictures I'd seen, the protesters with their posters of babies floating in the womb, the beautiful babies wrapped up in blankets. 'This is what you're killing.' How could they lie like that?"
The interview with Kimberly Mutcherson, when asked 'How do you think about the fetus?'
"A fetus lives inside of someone's body and exists only because of their position in that body. You can have whatever concept you want to about when life begins, at conception or some later point, or when a fetus becomes a person, but none of that answers the fundamental question: When do I have to subjugate my life to another person's life?"
If you have read this far, I truly hope you are able to pick up this book. Some parts could have had more detail but that was not the point of this book. It's making a statement that we all need to hear, and it does a damn good job.
This book is going to be controversial. It shouldn't be, but it will be, based on everything going on in the country since the overturn of Roe v. Wade. I will not use this platform to discuss my views and stances on this subject, though most people already know where I stand, especially since I picked up a book like this. But this book is a compelling view of abortion from a young adult living in a state where every form of it is banned. Reading her fictional but realistic journey reminded me how lucky and privileged I am to live in the state I do.
I found the interviews at the end about reproductive rights and reproductive justice to be fascinating and a must read for everyone. I borrowed this from the library, but I will be purchasing this to just re-read those alone. I never do this but here are some quotes that I am still thinking about since I finished this book late last night.
"How had being pregnant turned me from a law-abiding citizen who just wanted to go to college to a girl who had to watch what she googled and lie to her period app, because someone might use those things to prove she was a criminal?"
"A woman in Mississippi had tried to give herself an abortion and died of an embolism. A teenage girl in Kansas had gotten sepsis and died after trying to self-abort. A woman with a wanted pregnancy had died after the doctors wouldn't abort her ectopic pregnancy and it burst. Death. Murder. Prosecution. Blood. Infection. Everything I googled ended in horror. Nothing made the laws change."
"It's madness that the women in your life can't tell you about their abortions as freely as they'd tell you about their weddings or their first jobs or their babies."
"I thought about the pictures I'd seen, the protesters with their posters of babies floating in the womb, the beautiful babies wrapped up in blankets. 'This is what you're killing.' How could they lie like that?"
The interview with Kimberly Mutcherson, when asked 'How do you think about the fetus?'
"A fetus lives inside of someone's body and exists only because of their position in that body. You can have whatever concept you want to about when life begins, at conception or some later point, or when a fetus becomes a person, but none of that answers the fundamental question: When do I have to subjugate my life to another person's life?"
If you have read this far, I truly hope you are able to pick up this book. Some parts could have had more detail but that was not the point of this book. It's making a statement that we all need to hear, and it does a damn good job.
June 17, 2025
2/5
For me, contemporary ends up meaning reading about high school life that was completely unrelatable. This was no exception.
Hugely important topic. I chose it specifically for the timely way it popped up at my library, but the execution didn't work for me.
Grace is supposed to be really smart, she doesn't come off this way. Jack is a cliche and the beginning is just a huge cliche of nerd tutors jock and then they start messing around, they break up, and then she finds out she's pregnant. I would have liked any other way to introduce their relation/situationship, but alas.
I enjoyed Grace and Addie's friendship, it felt authentic. I had to forget that they were seniors though, and that Grace was gifted. They really didn't come off as being that old or smart, I cringed way too often.
Once again, important topic. Important story. Important facts included. It's frustrating and sad and I want to read more of these stories and share them and shine light on them. This just wasn't one I could connect with. I couldn't even extend my disbelief for long. The book is short though.
Check your local library! Request this book and books like it. It's important to keep this topic active, always.
For me, contemporary ends up meaning reading about high school life that was completely unrelatable. This was no exception.
Hugely important topic. I chose it specifically for the timely way it popped up at my library, but the execution didn't work for me.
Grace is supposed to be really smart, she doesn't come off this way. Jack is a cliche and the beginning is just a huge cliche of nerd tutors jock and then they start messing around, they break up, and then she finds out she's pregnant. I would have liked any other way to introduce their relation/situationship, but alas.
I enjoyed Grace and Addie's friendship, it felt authentic. I had to forget that they were seniors though, and that Grace was gifted. They really didn't come off as being that old or smart, I cringed way too often.
Once again, important topic. Important story. Important facts included. It's frustrating and sad and I want to read more of these stories and share them and shine light on them. This just wasn't one I could connect with. I couldn't even extend my disbelief for long. The book is short though.
Check your local library! Request this book and books like it. It's important to keep this topic active, always.
May 9, 2025
so this was an automatic 5 stars for me, (meaning.. when i saw my sister get this book from the library, 🤫 im a self proclaimed book stealer) but anyway 😬
beautiful cover ✅
beautiful writing ✅
and this book is (unfortunately) talking about serious issues we have today in the world. (✅)
Anyway as a firm believer of Abortion is a right, i HAD to come check this out. did NOT disappoint.
I didn’t like Jack at all, he felt rude,self centered and conceited (good thing we only vaguely read about him and he’s not a super main character because i HATED him) 🤗.
Very beautiful book. Education on abortion needs to happen. It’s 2025 and women’s rights are plummeting.
(5/5)⭐️🗽
beautiful cover ✅
beautiful writing ✅
and this book is (unfortunately) talking about serious issues we have today in the world. (✅)
Anyway as a firm believer of Abortion is a right, i HAD to come check this out. did NOT disappoint.
I didn’t like Jack at all, he felt rude,self centered and conceited (good thing we only vaguely read about him and he’s not a super main character because i HATED him) 🤗.
Very beautiful book. Education on abortion needs to happen. It’s 2025 and women’s rights are plummeting.
(5/5)⭐️🗽
Read
February 24, 2025so quick but so timely. (read it completely on one day’s worth of train rides!)
this is a book you’ll appreciate for its subject matter, but the lovely characters was a nice plus. i really enjoyed the friendship aspect.
this is a book you’ll appreciate for its subject matter, but the lovely characters was a nice plus. i really enjoyed the friendship aspect.
April 4, 2025
Wow. I finished this 3o minutes ago and my mind has not stopped reeling. The fact that this is a reality for some people makes me so... mad, angry, sad, afraid, shocked, horrified, depressed, numb, out of control, weak, appalled, revolted, nauseated, and pretty much every other negative emotion there is. It has been a while sense a book made me feel like this. It is such a simple topic, addressing a huge issue in horrifying description. Addie and Grace's friendship made me so happy, and also jealous. Grace's family made me physically sick. Abortion is not murder. Period. And I feel so bad for anybody who is raised to believe that, or to believe that that is not am option.
April 1, 2025
A much needed book about the harsh reality of getting an illegal abortion in a southern state. I only wish adults and adults in government and SCJ's could read this book and other books about the realities of not wanting to be pregnant.
May 9, 2025
~3.75
This book was honestly really well done. At first I started it and wasn’t a fan. The writing felt too fast paced and a bit childish. But by page 50 I totally changed my thoughts. The reactions of Grace, the barriers she faced, the hardship, the fear and stress and terror and sadness, the tricks and lies, and the ease of the actual abortion were so……impactful to read.
This book dives into a good discussion on abortion access. The way it can cause people to feel stuck, helpless, and like the only answer is death or baby. I knew a lot already, but there were many things I learned about (like the Jane’s - a service that helped people get access to abortions when they lived in anti-abortion places). I feel like this book is GREAT for teens and it puts this major life decision into their perspective. It also teaches them about the politics of abortions and forces them to look at this situation critically.
This book also does a great job of showing how abortions are health care and choices for women. It isn’t murder. It isn’t a crime. It’s health care. I loved how the book makes readers ask how a pregnancy could possibly turn someone into a criminal.
I also found it good that Grace felt her family was safe and loving but wouldn’t allow her a choice. It was a good middle between “they can’t know they would disown me and throw me out” and “they accept me and my choices.” So many people fall on a spectrum. Having her family love her and (if they had found out) forcing her to keep the baby but helping her raise the baby is a common middle I feel for many teens in these situations.
I do think that the book was a little childish and fast paced. I felt like I didn’t really know the characters that well. I also felt like some of their jokes were childish. To me, the story was more about the plot and the experiences and the discussion of abortion and how that can look rather than about the characters themselves.
I recommend it to teens. Obviously real stories about women getting abortions would be good for teens and adults, but I think this story is good and giving a “light at the end of the tunnel” vibe. It ends happy. It ends with Grace being happy and living her life. And I think that is a good way to end a YA novel focused on abortion.
I also think adults can enjoy this story but I think they will feel similar to me - fast paced and a little surface level but a great way to start critically thinking about abortion rights.
This book was honestly really well done. At first I started it and wasn’t a fan. The writing felt too fast paced and a bit childish. But by page 50 I totally changed my thoughts. The reactions of Grace, the barriers she faced, the hardship, the fear and stress and terror and sadness, the tricks and lies, and the ease of the actual abortion were so……impactful to read.
This book dives into a good discussion on abortion access. The way it can cause people to feel stuck, helpless, and like the only answer is death or baby. I knew a lot already, but there were many things I learned about (like the Jane’s - a service that helped people get access to abortions when they lived in anti-abortion places). I feel like this book is GREAT for teens and it puts this major life decision into their perspective. It also teaches them about the politics of abortions and forces them to look at this situation critically.
This book also does a great job of showing how abortions are health care and choices for women. It isn’t murder. It isn’t a crime. It’s health care. I loved how the book makes readers ask how a pregnancy could possibly turn someone into a criminal.
I also found it good that Grace felt her family was safe and loving but wouldn’t allow her a choice. It was a good middle between “they can’t know they would disown me and throw me out” and “they accept me and my choices.” So many people fall on a spectrum. Having her family love her and (if they had found out) forcing her to keep the baby but helping her raise the baby is a common middle I feel for many teens in these situations.
I do think that the book was a little childish and fast paced. I felt like I didn’t really know the characters that well. I also felt like some of their jokes were childish. To me, the story was more about the plot and the experiences and the discussion of abortion and how that can look rather than about the characters themselves.
I recommend it to teens. Obviously real stories about women getting abortions would be good for teens and adults, but I think this story is good and giving a “light at the end of the tunnel” vibe. It ends happy. It ends with Grace being happy and living her life. And I think that is a good way to end a YA novel focused on abortion.
I also think adults can enjoy this story but I think they will feel similar to me - fast paced and a little surface level but a great way to start critically thinking about abortion rights.
November 11, 2025
*4.25*
such a powerful read. i’m sure there will controversy about this book which shouldn’t be the case but it’s the world we are in. it’s wild to see how states can have vastly different laws and how unfair it is for people who live in these strict states. i grew up in Pennsylvania and now live in Georgia and just the idea/laws in each state in so different and it was shock to be in this culture after growing up in the north. i won’t get into my own beliefs but this book felt so powerful and sad seeing this 17 year old rush to come up with the options. and some of the options were risking her own life.
from a young adult perspective i think the author handled everything with so much care. i wouldn’t be worried to handing this to a 16 year old. i think it’s such important read especially for today’s world
such a powerful read. i’m sure there will controversy about this book which shouldn’t be the case but it’s the world we are in. it’s wild to see how states can have vastly different laws and how unfair it is for people who live in these strict states. i grew up in Pennsylvania and now live in Georgia and just the idea/laws in each state in so different and it was shock to be in this culture after growing up in the north. i won’t get into my own beliefs but this book felt so powerful and sad seeing this 17 year old rush to come up with the options. and some of the options were risking her own life.
from a young adult perspective i think the author handled everything with so much care. i wouldn’t be worried to handing this to a 16 year old. i think it’s such important read especially for today’s world
March 2, 2025
3.5 but rounded up! Short but powerful read. Highlights how reproductive rights (or the lack thereof) impacts young women’s lives. Loved the themes of friendship and women supporting women. Addie made me tear up she’s such a good friend
June 14, 2025
3.5/5
This was a very important read. The first half was amazing but the second half fell flat on a topic that is very very important now.
This was a very important read. The first half was amazing but the second half fell flat on a topic that is very very important now.
February 16, 2025
‘Biology Lessons’ is simply a heartbreaking YA novel about a young girl from Texas’ attempts and tribulations trying to get an abortion. The novel was really eye opening for me, I’ve always understood the consequences of roe v wade but being from a place that supports abortion throughout the country. Hearing this story in so much detail was really upsetting. The book was important and well-researched. A good lesson for anyone.
4 star
Thanks to #netgalley for this ARC.
4 star
Thanks to #netgalley for this ARC.
January 28, 2025
Thank you to the publisher or the earc!
I wish I could say I loved this book. But that’s an emotion I don’t feel at all. I am mad, sad, angry, devastated. It's so hard to believe that it isn't entirely fiction. This is the reality for many people.
Grace lives in a small town in Texas, but she dreams of moving to New York to go to university. She starts tutoring the hottest guy from the school, but soon their study sessions turn into make out sessions. And after they broke up, Grace finds out she is pregnant. But she lives in Taxes, where abortion is illegal. She knows she can't keep the baby if she wants to have a future in new York, but she cannot ask help from her family.
I seriously can’t wrap my head around the whole ban on abortion. Especially the kind that was portrayed in the book. Total ban, no matter what. Was it rape? Is the person underage? Does the pregnancy threatens the life of the person (and/or the baby)? Who cares? Definitely not Texas with their laws. In this story we can clearly see the effects that overturning Roe vs. Wade caused.
I cant find words, so please just read this book. It’s important.
I wish I could say I loved this book. But that’s an emotion I don’t feel at all. I am mad, sad, angry, devastated. It's so hard to believe that it isn't entirely fiction. This is the reality for many people.
Grace lives in a small town in Texas, but she dreams of moving to New York to go to university. She starts tutoring the hottest guy from the school, but soon their study sessions turn into make out sessions. And after they broke up, Grace finds out she is pregnant. But she lives in Taxes, where abortion is illegal. She knows she can't keep the baby if she wants to have a future in new York, but she cannot ask help from her family.
I seriously can’t wrap my head around the whole ban on abortion. Especially the kind that was portrayed in the book. Total ban, no matter what. Was it rape? Is the person underage? Does the pregnancy threatens the life of the person (and/or the baby)? Who cares? Definitely not Texas with their laws. In this story we can clearly see the effects that overturning Roe vs. Wade caused.
I cant find words, so please just read this book. It’s important.
March 21, 2025
Thank you to both Melissa Kantor and Netgalley for the gifted audiobook (subsequent to release) in exchange for an honest review by me.
5⭐️
Wow. This story was short but such an important listen for me. I have always supported a person’s right to an abortion and this book deepened my compassion for this subject in a way I did not think was possible. The emotions were incredibly intense and I felt so much pain for the main character, Grace, throughout the entirety of the story. This book may not go into great “detail” about the ins and outs and legalities of an abortion (although there were data, statistics, and information given at certain points), but rather gives back a name and power to the many people who choose (and sometimes don’t choose) to obtain an abortion. People who get abortions are often villainized in the media and in real life to the point where many forget that these individuals are real living people with dreams, hopes, passions, and a future ahead of them. Additionally, this books delves into the importance of friendship in the time of dire circumstances. This book was an emotional and important read that I recommend to everyone.
5⭐️
Wow. This story was short but such an important listen for me. I have always supported a person’s right to an abortion and this book deepened my compassion for this subject in a way I did not think was possible. The emotions were incredibly intense and I felt so much pain for the main character, Grace, throughout the entirety of the story. This book may not go into great “detail” about the ins and outs and legalities of an abortion (although there were data, statistics, and information given at certain points), but rather gives back a name and power to the many people who choose (and sometimes don’t choose) to obtain an abortion. People who get abortions are often villainized in the media and in real life to the point where many forget that these individuals are real living people with dreams, hopes, passions, and a future ahead of them. Additionally, this books delves into the importance of friendship in the time of dire circumstances. This book was an emotional and important read that I recommend to everyone.
October 13, 2024
This is definitely going to be a controversial book when it releases but just because of that it doesn’t mean it’s not important. I really enjoyed reading this. Grace as a Texan high school student definitely has a future set for herself and I could identify with that. I also was set into being in a STEM career. So when I read she ends up pregnant and her future was in danger it was interesting to me to read about that experience from her perspective.
The shocking part of this book was how misinformed these teenager were. They don’t know the dangers, or the consequences until it happens to them and they start googling things. To me it was unthinkable but of course that is not the same experience for everyone.
Overall, this was eye opening in many aspects for me. It shows you how stressful it always is for the woman, but also shows you how dangerous and terrifying it is to be in Texas in this situation. And lastly, that epilogue were we see the man completely stress-free and how he is clueless that Grace’s decision gave him that. If Grace would’ve decided otherwise, his life would’ve changed too, but of course the whole burden was for Grace to bear and that show how unjust these situations are. Enjoyed this and I would totally recommend to people. If it was eye opening to me, it will be for several others too
The shocking part of this book was how misinformed these teenager were. They don’t know the dangers, or the consequences until it happens to them and they start googling things. To me it was unthinkable but of course that is not the same experience for everyone.
Overall, this was eye opening in many aspects for me. It shows you how stressful it always is for the woman, but also shows you how dangerous and terrifying it is to be in Texas in this situation. And lastly, that epilogue were we see the man completely stress-free and how he is clueless that Grace’s decision gave him that. If Grace would’ve decided otherwise, his life would’ve changed too, but of course the whole burden was for Grace to bear and that show how unjust these situations are. Enjoyed this and I would totally recommend to people. If it was eye opening to me, it will be for several others too
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and MacMillan Children’s for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Melissa Kantor’s Biology Lessons is a raw, timely exploration of friendship, resilience, and the challenges of personal autonomy in the wake of restricted reproductive rights. Set in Texas, the story follows Grace, a high school student with a clear path to a STEM future—until an unexpected pregnancy forces her to navigate the complex, often frustrating reality of abortion laws. With deft, realistic writing, Kantor tackles the controversial issues surrounding abortion access, particularly in states where it is heavily restricted, while weaving a story that is both engaging and emotional. Before going into the review, do note that the book does provide details about a medical/surgical abortion; if this kind of content is uncomfortable for you, you may not want to read this story.
The book is grounded in the strength of Grace’s friendship with her best friend, Addie. Through Addie’s fierce protectiveness and determination to support Grace, you will witness the transformative power of female friendship. Their bond becomes a source of strength and solace, especially as Grace finds herself isolated and forced to make difficult decisions. The story is also enriched by a support network called the “Jennifers,” a group of women who provide emotional and practical help, sharing their own stories and reaffirming that Grace is not alone in her struggle. This network of support adds a layer of hope and solidarity to a book that otherwise confronts harsh truths about the obstacles women face.
Kantor’s depiction of the bureaucratic and legal obstacles surrounding abortion in Texas is especially powerful, as she deftly outlines the hurdles Grace must overcome, even considering traveling out of state for the procedure. Through her journey, the book emphasizes just how much of the burden falls on women. Grace’s determination to make her own choice, despite the weight of prejudice and misinformation, illustrates the stark reality of being young, pregnant, and in search of autonomy. Her decision not to inform the baby’s father further highlights the gendered inequities that are central to the story.
This book is an eye-opening portrayal of how reproductive rights, or the lack thereof, impact young women’s lives. Kantor navigates these issues with sensitivity and balance, avoiding preachiness while illustrating the depth of Grace’s fear, frustration, and hope. This is a book that made me tear up quite a few times, especially when other women shared their stories and showed that Grace was not alone, that 1 in 4 women (as stated in the book) have had an abortion. There is some very powerful and important information in this book, information many young women should read. There is also an informative note from the author as well as two interviews after the epilogue that you definitely don’t want to skip as they were also very emotional and powerful.
Overall, “Biology Lessons” is a powerful novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate honest storytelling on difficult subjects. It’s a must-read for those seeking an empathetic, informed perspective on bodily autonomy and resilience in the face of adversity.
Melissa Kantor’s Biology Lessons is a raw, timely exploration of friendship, resilience, and the challenges of personal autonomy in the wake of restricted reproductive rights. Set in Texas, the story follows Grace, a high school student with a clear path to a STEM future—until an unexpected pregnancy forces her to navigate the complex, often frustrating reality of abortion laws. With deft, realistic writing, Kantor tackles the controversial issues surrounding abortion access, particularly in states where it is heavily restricted, while weaving a story that is both engaging and emotional. Before going into the review, do note that the book does provide details about a medical/surgical abortion; if this kind of content is uncomfortable for you, you may not want to read this story.
The book is grounded in the strength of Grace’s friendship with her best friend, Addie. Through Addie’s fierce protectiveness and determination to support Grace, you will witness the transformative power of female friendship. Their bond becomes a source of strength and solace, especially as Grace finds herself isolated and forced to make difficult decisions. The story is also enriched by a support network called the “Jennifers,” a group of women who provide emotional and practical help, sharing their own stories and reaffirming that Grace is not alone in her struggle. This network of support adds a layer of hope and solidarity to a book that otherwise confronts harsh truths about the obstacles women face.
Kantor’s depiction of the bureaucratic and legal obstacles surrounding abortion in Texas is especially powerful, as she deftly outlines the hurdles Grace must overcome, even considering traveling out of state for the procedure. Through her journey, the book emphasizes just how much of the burden falls on women. Grace’s determination to make her own choice, despite the weight of prejudice and misinformation, illustrates the stark reality of being young, pregnant, and in search of autonomy. Her decision not to inform the baby’s father further highlights the gendered inequities that are central to the story.
This book is an eye-opening portrayal of how reproductive rights, or the lack thereof, impact young women’s lives. Kantor navigates these issues with sensitivity and balance, avoiding preachiness while illustrating the depth of Grace’s fear, frustration, and hope. This is a book that made me tear up quite a few times, especially when other women shared their stories and showed that Grace was not alone, that 1 in 4 women (as stated in the book) have had an abortion. There is some very powerful and important information in this book, information many young women should read. There is also an informative note from the author as well as two interviews after the epilogue that you definitely don’t want to skip as they were also very emotional and powerful.
Overall, “Biology Lessons” is a powerful novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate honest storytelling on difficult subjects. It’s a must-read for those seeking an empathetic, informed perspective on bodily autonomy and resilience in the face of adversity.
February 4, 2025
Drop everything and give this to the teenaged boy in your life.
Yes, this is a tale centred around a teenaged girl who opts for an abortion after Roe v. Wade's been struck down. Yes, we access her POV, intimately. Yes, it's not authentic; this isn't an OwnVoices piece. But I think this is one of the rare age-appropriate stories about "modern" abortion in the States that might just speak to the ones who really need to hear it ... the privileged, uneducated, indoctrinated young men who will grow up to either reify the status quo or disrupt it.
Anyone who is anti-choice should read this, as well. Especially the end notes. As several video interviews have shown, the people in charge of making and breaking the law and more importantly feeding your ideological spectrum are ignorant, and a lot of them hate women and genderqueer folk who can get pregnant. Pause and take a moment to reflect. Do your research. Where did you get your ideas from? Can you find the source, or are you relying on what others (/algorithms) have told you? What do you really know? And if you're someone who's basing everything off of your "beliefs" and "values" rather than empirical evidence, then tell us this: why should anyone adopt your "beliefs" and "values" over their own? No matter the cost, and no matter that it has no impact on you personally? Go deeper. What is the result of your position? Who benefits from you having this position? Who suffers? Is it really about "protecting life"?
Here's a little primer to get the unacquainted started: a scientist breaks down abortion myths.
As for the story, this wasn't a thrilling read for me, but I think younger audiences will like it. I was disappointed that the author only references girls and women in the end notes, and I hope she reflects on why and what this says about the power she's exerting in terms of the silencing she herself is participating in. The narration by Brittany Pressley was excellent and may even help tap into the listener's sympathies more than the text itself, I dare say.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for the advance copy of the audiobook.
Yes, this is a tale centred around a teenaged girl who opts for an abortion after Roe v. Wade's been struck down. Yes, we access her POV, intimately. Yes, it's not authentic; this isn't an OwnVoices piece. But I think this is one of the rare age-appropriate stories about "modern" abortion in the States that might just speak to the ones who really need to hear it ... the privileged, uneducated, indoctrinated young men who will grow up to either reify the status quo or disrupt it.
Anyone who is anti-choice should read this, as well. Especially the end notes. As several video interviews have shown, the people in charge of making and breaking the law and more importantly feeding your ideological spectrum are ignorant, and a lot of them hate women and genderqueer folk who can get pregnant. Pause and take a moment to reflect. Do your research. Where did you get your ideas from? Can you find the source, or are you relying on what others (/algorithms) have told you? What do you really know? And if you're someone who's basing everything off of your "beliefs" and "values" rather than empirical evidence, then tell us this: why should anyone adopt your "beliefs" and "values" over their own? No matter the cost, and no matter that it has no impact on you personally? Go deeper. What is the result of your position? Who benefits from you having this position? Who suffers? Is it really about "protecting life"?
Here's a little primer to get the unacquainted started: a scientist breaks down abortion myths.
As for the story, this wasn't a thrilling read for me, but I think younger audiences will like it. I was disappointed that the author only references girls and women in the end notes, and I hope she reflects on why and what this says about the power she's exerting in terms of the silencing she herself is participating in. The narration by Brittany Pressley was excellent and may even help tap into the listener's sympathies more than the text itself, I dare say.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for the advance copy of the audiobook.
January 31, 2025
I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the arc of this audiobook, in return for an honest review.
First I should probably say that I am not the target audience for this book. I’m in my mid-twenties and I like in the UK - where I am (apparently) extremely lucky to have access to abortions and pre-/post-natal care. But even so, this book impacted me so much.
We follow Grace as she navigates her life after finding out she’s pregnant. She lives in the state of Texas where abortion has been made completely illegal, leaving her with very little choice of what to do.
I struggle to believe that this isn’t a dystopian, that this is actually a snapshot of what life can be like living in America, the supposed ‘land of the free’. I can’t believe there are places that won’t allow abortions for any reason, not that anyone should need a reason to not go ahead with a pregnancy if they don’t want to. What someone wants to do with their body shouldn’t be a concern to anyone else (as is greatly explained in the interviews at the very end).
I loved Grace’s character and seeing how she dealt with this possibly life-changing decision. Her friendship with Addie was amazing, and seeing them work everything out together was heartwarming.
One thing I find difficult to understand is Grace’s love for Texas. State pride is such an American thing and I don’t understand how she can still want a Texas flag with her when she goes to college. I know there’s further meaning behind it concerning her friends, but why should she love the state just because she’s from there and that’s where her friends and family are? All of her problems stem from the fact that her state thinks they can dictate women’s bodily autonomy. I don’t know - it was just a weird one for me.
This is a must read for teenagers today, I think it would open their eyes to things they probably don’t know much about, and show them that topics like abortion don’t have to be taboo.
First I should probably say that I am not the target audience for this book. I’m in my mid-twenties and I like in the UK - where I am (apparently) extremely lucky to have access to abortions and pre-/post-natal care. But even so, this book impacted me so much.
We follow Grace as she navigates her life after finding out she’s pregnant. She lives in the state of Texas where abortion has been made completely illegal, leaving her with very little choice of what to do.
I struggle to believe that this isn’t a dystopian, that this is actually a snapshot of what life can be like living in America, the supposed ‘land of the free’. I can’t believe there are places that won’t allow abortions for any reason, not that anyone should need a reason to not go ahead with a pregnancy if they don’t want to. What someone wants to do with their body shouldn’t be a concern to anyone else (as is greatly explained in the interviews at the very end).
I loved Grace’s character and seeing how she dealt with this possibly life-changing decision. Her friendship with Addie was amazing, and seeing them work everything out together was heartwarming.
One thing I find difficult to understand is Grace’s love for Texas. State pride is such an American thing and I don’t understand how she can still want a Texas flag with her when she goes to college. I know there’s further meaning behind it concerning her friends, but why should she love the state just because she’s from there and that’s where her friends and family are? All of her problems stem from the fact that her state thinks they can dictate women’s bodily autonomy. I don’t know - it was just a weird one for me.
This is a must read for teenagers today, I think it would open their eyes to things they probably don’t know much about, and show them that topics like abortion don’t have to be taboo.
January 16, 2025
Despite her parents' wishes that she stay closer to home, Grace Williams is a Texas high school senior who is determined to follow her dreams of attending Barnard College in New York. Ever since visiting her great aunt, Grace has loved the city, and she has big plans for a future Biology career. Her excellence in science leads to a tutoring position with popular classmate Jack Nelson, a star baseball player who's struggling in AP Bio. What starts as adding to her resume turns into flirting, and tutoring moves from the library, to Jack's dining room, then living room, and finally bedroom. The Biology lessons move from books to the more physical. There are no hurt feelings when Grace and Jack decide to part ways; they're not really in the same league anyway. Then Grace fails her first test ever: a pregnancy test. With Addie, Grace's best friend for years, and Sebastian, a friend whose family moved to Austin in search of a more accepting LGBTQ community, by her side to support her, Grace has to face the reality of her situation. She lives in Texas where abortion is illegal. If they find out, there is no way her parents will let her consider anything except staying in Texas and raising her child. With the help of her friends, Grace faces the biggest challenge of her young life: making the choice that's right for her. But this choice comes at a price, and anyone found to have helped Grace faces dangerous, life-altering consequences. Numerous real world decisions are packed into 272 pages, and Biology Lessons will have readers racing to find out what happens next.
THOUGHTS: My heart broke for Grace as she realizes the reality of her situation and limited choices. Recommended for high school collections where character driven novels are popular.
THOUGHTS: My heart broke for Grace as she realizes the reality of her situation and limited choices. Recommended for high school collections where character driven novels are popular.
June 16, 2024
I really enjoyed this book.
Tackles the tough stance of overturning Roe vs Wade, detailing how impossible it is to obtain a safe and legal abortion in Texas.
I live in a country where abortions are legal and left to individuals to decide. Not so in this book and it made me very angry, at times.
Extremely well written and the friendship between Addie and Grace is just wonderful. Young women staying strong together. That was my favorite part of this book, the friendship.
The author does a good job of outlining the different issues with obtaining an abortions, especially if you are going to another state to get it. Its horrible and Grace experiences A LOT of prejudice, just trying to do what is best for her life.
Honestly, the parents are not a huge factor in this story, except for Grace being 100% sure that they will force her to have the baby if they find out. I like that Grace is present enough to realize that and really, its never a tie - keeping the baby barely registers as a possibility..
I like the fact that the "father" barely factors into this story, as Grace never tells him. Another example of how a woman has to carry so much of the load.
This book is about friendship and about two young women who are determined to advance on their own terms.
Very enduring and beautiful read.
Tackles the tough stance of overturning Roe vs Wade, detailing how impossible it is to obtain a safe and legal abortion in Texas.
I live in a country where abortions are legal and left to individuals to decide. Not so in this book and it made me very angry, at times.
Extremely well written and the friendship between Addie and Grace is just wonderful. Young women staying strong together. That was my favorite part of this book, the friendship.
The author does a good job of outlining the different issues with obtaining an abortions, especially if you are going to another state to get it. Its horrible and Grace experiences A LOT of prejudice, just trying to do what is best for her life.
Honestly, the parents are not a huge factor in this story, except for Grace being 100% sure that they will force her to have the baby if they find out. I like that Grace is present enough to realize that and really, its never a tie - keeping the baby barely registers as a possibility..
I like the fact that the "father" barely factors into this story, as Grace never tells him. Another example of how a woman has to carry so much of the load.
This book is about friendship and about two young women who are determined to advance on their own terms.
Very enduring and beautiful read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2025
"In poetry, everything requires interpretation. In science, something is either right or wrong. Unfortunately, despite all the jokes about love and chemistry, I fear romance might be more like poetry than science."
This book hurt. High school was a lifetime ago and Biology Lessons poignantly, painfully roused every insecurity, every moment of youthful uncertainty. Dating and friendships and first kisses and wrong choices and bad hair and impulsive (sometimes dangerous) decisions and mean girls and adolescent fear and thoughts of what the future might bring. Reviews from adults stating that the characters felt immature or that the story started out childish need a reminder that this book was not written for you, it was written for teens and tweens, and that most kids ARE like this at 17. Especially if they grew up in a sheltered or conservative environment. Biology Lessons is a quick read with a cutesy cover befitting a contemporary YA novel and a not so cutesy story about the harsh realities of a post-Roe society. Grace and Abbie's friendship accompanied by their very honest and adolescent fear, shame, innocence, and bravery had me sobbing more than once. I rarely read contemporary YA these days, but I'm glad I picked this one up (and bought a copy for my library's shelves).
This book hurt. High school was a lifetime ago and Biology Lessons poignantly, painfully roused every insecurity, every moment of youthful uncertainty. Dating and friendships and first kisses and wrong choices and bad hair and impulsive (sometimes dangerous) decisions and mean girls and adolescent fear and thoughts of what the future might bring. Reviews from adults stating that the characters felt immature or that the story started out childish need a reminder that this book was not written for you, it was written for teens and tweens, and that most kids ARE like this at 17. Especially if they grew up in a sheltered or conservative environment. Biology Lessons is a quick read with a cutesy cover befitting a contemporary YA novel and a not so cutesy story about the harsh realities of a post-Roe society. Grace and Abbie's friendship accompanied by their very honest and adolescent fear, shame, innocence, and bravery had me sobbing more than once. I rarely read contemporary YA these days, but I'm glad I picked this one up (and bought a copy for my library's shelves).
December 8, 2024
Unlike most of her classmates, senior Grace is leaving Texas for college, headed for Barnard to immerse herself in science. Her loving family is puzzled about why she would want to study in New York where people have such different values, but Grace doesn’t see herself living the same kind of life as her parents. When sports golden boy Jack is paired with Grace for biology tutoring, Grace enjoys the new experience of flirting with Jack; when study sessions turn to make-out sessions and then more, Jack always uses a condom, though there was that one time when it came off.
Best friend Addie is determined to help when Grace’s persistent nausea and late period send them to a large drug store in another part of town to buy a pregnancy test. As the girls research the harsh reality of anti-abortion laws in Texas, they discover that a crisis pregnancy center won’t help Grace get the abortion she seeks and are overwhelmed with the difficulty of finding the money to go out of state, locating a clinic, managing transportation, and keeping it all a secret from their families without getting those who want to help them in trouble with the law. Suspenseful, terrifying, heartbreaking. EARC from Edelweiss.
Best friend Addie is determined to help when Grace’s persistent nausea and late period send them to a large drug store in another part of town to buy a pregnancy test. As the girls research the harsh reality of anti-abortion laws in Texas, they discover that a crisis pregnancy center won’t help Grace get the abortion she seeks and are overwhelmed with the difficulty of finding the money to go out of state, locating a clinic, managing transportation, and keeping it all a secret from their families without getting those who want to help them in trouble with the law. Suspenseful, terrifying, heartbreaking. EARC from Edelweiss.
March 14, 2025
Let me start by thanking NetGalley and the author for gifting me the ALC of this book.
"Biology Lessons" is a deeply moving young adult novel that hits home, especially in today's climate regarding reproductive rights. The author, Melissa Kantor, tackles the intense emotions of being pregnant in a state with strict anti-abortion laws, especially after the recent overturn of Roe v. Wade. The story follows high school senior Grace Williams, who has big dreams of studying biology at Barnard. Things take a turn when she gets pregnant after a fling with Jack, the school's star baseball player. With abortion illegal and her parents' expectations weighing her down, Grace feels her plans slipping away.
What stands out in this book is the portrayal of strong friendship and solidarity as Grace turns to her best friends, Addie and Sebastian, for support. They face the serious risks posed by the laws around them while trying to figure out a way to help her. The dynamic between the characters brings forth the power of female friendship and the fight for bodily autonomy in a world that feels increasingly restrictive. This heartfelt narrative shines a light on real issues and is sure to resonate with readers, especially young women everywhere.
"Biology Lessons" is a deeply moving young adult novel that hits home, especially in today's climate regarding reproductive rights. The author, Melissa Kantor, tackles the intense emotions of being pregnant in a state with strict anti-abortion laws, especially after the recent overturn of Roe v. Wade. The story follows high school senior Grace Williams, who has big dreams of studying biology at Barnard. Things take a turn when she gets pregnant after a fling with Jack, the school's star baseball player. With abortion illegal and her parents' expectations weighing her down, Grace feels her plans slipping away.
What stands out in this book is the portrayal of strong friendship and solidarity as Grace turns to her best friends, Addie and Sebastian, for support. They face the serious risks posed by the laws around them while trying to figure out a way to help her. The dynamic between the characters brings forth the power of female friendship and the fight for bodily autonomy in a world that feels increasingly restrictive. This heartfelt narrative shines a light on real issues and is sure to resonate with readers, especially young women everywhere.
January 14, 2025
📖 Book Review 📖 Here I am raising three daughters in 2025 and I cannot believe that I can start a sentence with, “Back when I was growing up, I had more rights than you do now…” Melissa Kantor explores the current milieu in her new novel, Biology Lessons, in a gripping and profound manner that resonates deeply.
Although Grace has lived her whole life in a small town in Texas, her heart has been in NYC and her hard work is finally about to land her there for college. After summers spent there with her aunt enrolled in a STEM program for gifted girls, it finally feels like her time to shine. But when an unexpected pregnancy threatens her future, she is left scrambling to figure out how to still make her dreams come true. But in a world where Roe vs. Wade has been overturned, her options are limited. Kantor explores the complexity of the issues surrounding abortion in real, raw, and relatable ways that readers of all ages will be able to sympathize with regardless of their own personal experiences. Biology Lessons is more than just a powerful statement on a woman’s right to choose; it is a testament to the depths of sisterhood.
Although Grace has lived her whole life in a small town in Texas, her heart has been in NYC and her hard work is finally about to land her there for college. After summers spent there with her aunt enrolled in a STEM program for gifted girls, it finally feels like her time to shine. But when an unexpected pregnancy threatens her future, she is left scrambling to figure out how to still make her dreams come true. But in a world where Roe vs. Wade has been overturned, her options are limited. Kantor explores the complexity of the issues surrounding abortion in real, raw, and relatable ways that readers of all ages will be able to sympathize with regardless of their own personal experiences. Biology Lessons is more than just a powerful statement on a woman’s right to choose; it is a testament to the depths of sisterhood.
February 27, 2025
Biology Lessons is a great example of realistic young adult fiction. Parts of it are definitely the experience of many young women, and not just young women in the state of Texas, but women all over the country since the overthrow of Roe v. Wade. I do think it is an impactful story and should be applauded for its subject of abortion.
However, there were times when I was reading when I wished we had more information about the rules and restrictions set in place in Texas surrounding abortion. It lacked depth. And while I loved the emotional intensity of Grace’s story, what the story lacked was a real look at what women have to go through and the resources that are available (and unavailable) to them. There was so much potential to really dive in to the history of Roe v. Wade, the Janes (or Jennifers as they are called in the book) and the current repercussions of abortions in Texas.
Besides the topic of abortion, I wish we could have also gotten a stronger glimpse into her relationship with her great-aunt Wendy, who lived in New York City. Grace is headed to Barnard and NYC on the influence of her aunt. She wants to move on from her small Texas town and her conservative parents to try new things in a big, open-minded city. Also, the description of the book makes it seem like the character of Sebastian would be bigger than he was. I wished he was utilized more and had a bigger place in the story. He was just kind of lost.
There was so much potential here, but I feel like it was rushed. Kantor wrote something timely and important, but it lacked the depth it deserved.
However, there were times when I was reading when I wished we had more information about the rules and restrictions set in place in Texas surrounding abortion. It lacked depth. And while I loved the emotional intensity of Grace’s story, what the story lacked was a real look at what women have to go through and the resources that are available (and unavailable) to them. There was so much potential to really dive in to the history of Roe v. Wade, the Janes (or Jennifers as they are called in the book) and the current repercussions of abortions in Texas.
Besides the topic of abortion, I wish we could have also gotten a stronger glimpse into her relationship with her great-aunt Wendy, who lived in New York City. Grace is headed to Barnard and NYC on the influence of her aunt. She wants to move on from her small Texas town and her conservative parents to try new things in a big, open-minded city. Also, the description of the book makes it seem like the character of Sebastian would be bigger than he was. I wished he was utilized more and had a bigger place in the story. He was just kind of lost.
There was so much potential here, but I feel like it was rushed. Kantor wrote something timely and important, but it lacked the depth it deserved.
March 14, 2025
Grace has plans for her future. Big plans! But Grace ends up pregnant unexpectedly while in highschool. Her family is strict pro-life, and she knows they would give her no options but to have the baby, raise the baby, and for her to be stuck in her small town life forever, instead of following her dreams.
Her friends try to help her find options. She ends up in what she thought was an abortion clinic, but turns out to be a faith-based pregnancy center pressuring their anti-abortion beliefs on her.
As her friends try and help her, they are having to be extremely careful of any internet searches, since their state bans abortions and prosecutes those who help one get an abortion. Grace ends up severely depressed and ponders how dying would be better than this new reality, and her lack of options.
This story is poignant and emotional. It highlights the complexities and heartbreak that comes as a result of anti abortion rules in the US. Important read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Her friends try to help her find options. She ends up in what she thought was an abortion clinic, but turns out to be a faith-based pregnancy center pressuring their anti-abortion beliefs on her.
As her friends try and help her, they are having to be extremely careful of any internet searches, since their state bans abortions and prosecutes those who help one get an abortion. Grace ends up severely depressed and ponders how dying would be better than this new reality, and her lack of options.
This story is poignant and emotional. It highlights the complexities and heartbreak that comes as a result of anti abortion rules in the US. Important read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
January 14, 2025
3/5 stars.
Biology Lessons follows a teenage girl named Grace who finds herself pregnant near the end of her senior year of high school. But because she lives in Texas, she cannot legally get an abortion. So Grace and her friends come up with a plan to make things work.
I’m giving this a solid three stars because I felt it was too short at times, it lacked some depth and background I would’ve liked. Grace is a smart girl, but I didn’t fully grasp what her family life was like. Her parents and brothers felt two dimensional and I wanted more from them.
This is an important book, but I felt preachy at times as well. There was a constant reminder that getting an abortion doesn’t make you a bad person—which is an important message—but I didn’t feel the stakes here. And I didn’t understand the “love letter to your hometown,” but, Grace’s Texas town didn’t give me a sense of place….it was just there. But the writing was good and I felt for Grace.
Biology Lessons follows a teenage girl named Grace who finds herself pregnant near the end of her senior year of high school. But because she lives in Texas, she cannot legally get an abortion. So Grace and her friends come up with a plan to make things work.
I’m giving this a solid three stars because I felt it was too short at times, it lacked some depth and background I would’ve liked. Grace is a smart girl, but I didn’t fully grasp what her family life was like. Her parents and brothers felt two dimensional and I wanted more from them.
This is an important book, but I felt preachy at times as well. There was a constant reminder that getting an abortion doesn’t make you a bad person—which is an important message—but I didn’t feel the stakes here. And I didn’t understand the “love letter to your hometown,” but, Grace’s Texas town didn’t give me a sense of place….it was just there. But the writing was good and I felt for Grace.
February 18, 2025
A slim yet timely YA read about bodily autonomy and the struggles for reproductive care in a post-ROE world, especially in a state where abortion access is non existent.
This book brings up realistic fears that many women face when seeking an abortion in a restricitve state. and ones I haven't read lately in books with this topic-wondering if their internet searches will be traced back to them, if the rumors about "abortion bounty hunters" are true or not, deleting their period trackers. These factors really drove home how serious Grace's situation was, and you felt her desperation and fear alongside her.
I loved Grace's banter with her BFF Addie; it felt geniune and they spoke and acted like actual teenagers. But after reading this and all that Grace experienced, hers was still from a place of privilege: Grace was still able to obtain the money for & ride out of state for her abortion, while many women cannot. It would be refreshing for once to read an abortion book from the perspective of a BIPOC character or someone who is less than privileged
This book brings up realistic fears that many women face when seeking an abortion in a restricitve state. and ones I haven't read lately in books with this topic-wondering if their internet searches will be traced back to them, if the rumors about "abortion bounty hunters" are true or not, deleting their period trackers. These factors really drove home how serious Grace's situation was, and you felt her desperation and fear alongside her.
I loved Grace's banter with her BFF Addie; it felt geniune and they spoke and acted like actual teenagers. But after reading this and all that Grace experienced, hers was still from a place of privilege: Grace was still able to obtain the money for & ride out of state for her abortion, while many women cannot. It would be refreshing for once to read an abortion book from the perspective of a BIPOC character or someone who is less than privileged
March 21, 2025
This book had so much potential but the way she wrote the characters were described and acted made me cringe a little, there were also moments that were inconsistent with the way the characters were portrayed. The main character is supposed to be basically a biology prodigy, but just the way she talked about it did not seem like a way that anyone would actually talk about it, very robotic and not humanistic, whenever she first bought her pregnancy test she talked about how supposedly it works in detail comparing it to a Covid test, which is like how are you supposed to be so smart but not know that there's a difference? And how are you supposed to be an advanced 17 year old senior in high school but not know abortion is illegal in Texas? There was just so many constant inconsistencies and contradicting details that had me furrowing my eyebrows. The end also felt very rushed. Okay book, would recommend if you like "taboo" books that discuss real issues.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews