“Nestled amongst ‘Demon Copperhead,’ ‘The Wager,’ ‘Verity’ and ‘Somebody’s Fool,’ a portion of my summer reading list, Bonnie Garmus’ ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ takes the prize. A unique and easy read, the story is intellectually stimulating and spiced with humor. It centers on Elizabeth Gott, a remarkable research chemist who, when her career unexpectedly shifts to hosting a popular cooking show, defies social conventions that govern women in the 1960s. She abandons neither her scientific training nor her highly logical feminine perspective, and when combined, they provide the lessons in the title. I found many passages absolutely joyous. Give a few, or all of these books a read, bask for a month or more in reading pleasure, and see if you agree.” — STEVE KLUG, Owls Head


Mainers, please email to tell us about the book on your bedside table. In a paragraph or two, describe the book and be sure to tell us what drew you to it. What makes it a can’t-miss read for the rest of us? We want to hear what you are reading and why. Send your selection to pgrodinsky@pressherald.com, and we may use it as a future Bedside Table.