Annie Vila

Annie Vila asked Bonnie Garmus:

Hi! I LOVED this book so much (my new favorite)! I had a lot of fun reading it, partially because I'm a biology major and chemistry minor. The chemistry references were all on point; I was wondering what sort of science background you have? And, is science still something you pursue or are you working on writing full time?

Bonnie Garmus Thanks, Annie. I'm not a scientist, but I am an avid researcher and spent time teaching myself basic chemistry from an old textbook from the 1950s. To ensure accuracy, I had that portion of the book reviewed by two PhD women chemists/scientists. I am (or was) a copywriter and creative director which is a career that rewards flexibility--i.e., I was always writing what I didn't know, as opposed to what I did. To me, science is essential; everyone should have some background in it, and the earlier the better. I'm thrilled to hear you're on the road to becoming a scientist--we need you. As for what I do now, I've since quit copywriting (hurrah!) and am now focusing on fiction.

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John Post

John Post asked Bonnie Garmus:

I am co-directer of a 1 and 2 mile cable swim (quarter mile course no flip turns) in Charlottesville, VA reading "Lessons" now. Well done. I captained a Channel relay years ago. Like to come swim with us 6/3? The water is warm! www.chrisgreenecableswim.com John Post

Margot MacKay

Margot MacKay asked Bonnie Garmus:

I'm most likely going to receive approval to teach this novel to my 11th graders this coming school year -- as a pilot text to see how they like it and how it fits with our grade-level theme ("The American Dream"). First, I know they'll LOVE it. Secondly, do you have any paired texts that you would suggest I check out? Any poems, songs, etc. that inspired you as you crafted this story, the characters, etc.?

Bellamy Gayle

Bellamy Gayle asked Bonnie Garmus:

Your humor made me laugh out loud. (Thanks! I needed that.) I can relate to everything about the sixties. I had parents who encouraged me to believe I had no limits, but male bankers and men in general kept me confined even as I owned my own business. Had to have my ex-husband's name on my credit card, for example. To avoid (yet another) banker's rejection, my brother went to lenders, sitting silently beside me?

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