CLEVELAND, OH—September 4, 2025—The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is thrilled to host Bonnie Garmus, bestselling author of the critically acclaimed Lessons in Chemistry, on Thursday, October 16, 2025, for an evening of storytelling, science and women’s empowerment.
During this moderated discussion, Garmus will delve into the themes behind her breakout novel and share the inspiration and experiences that led her to write the award-winning book. Lessons in Chemistry follows the story of Elizabeth Zott, a gifted research chemist who navigates the challenges of being a woman scientist in 1960s California—and her path to becoming the unlikely star of a beloved TV cooking show. Garmus’ work has won over 15 national and international awards, was selected by Queen Camilla for the Queen’s Reading Room, and has been on the New York Times, Sunday Times, and Der Spiegel bestseller lists for nearly three years. Currently published in 43 territories, Lessons in Chemistry has sold more than 8 million copies and was adapted for a miniseries on AppleTV+ in 2023. This event is part of the Museum’s new series Conversations with Women in STEAM, which celebrates accomplished women—from authors to astronauts—who play vital roles in shaping our world and inspiring the next generation.
Following the discussion, Garmus will sign copies of Lessons in Chemistry. Attendees can pre-order books from local partner Loganberry Books or purchase them on site at the event. Signed copies will also be available from Loganberry for those unable to attend in person.
Doors open at 6:30pm; the program begins at 7pm. Guests are invited to enjoy beverages and grab-and-go fare from Origins Café before the program.
Early registration for Museum members opens at 9am on Thursday, September 4. General ticket sales begin at noon the same day. Sign up for the Museum’s email list for ticket alerts and updates.
About Bonnie Garmus
Bonnie Garmus is the author of Lessons in Chemistry, a number-one global bestseller and winner of over 15 national and international awards, including Barnes & Noble’s Book of the Year, Hay Festival’s Book of the Year, Goodreads Choice Award Debut of the Year, British Book Awards Author of the Year, Waterstones Author of the Year, the Nielsen Platinum Booksellers award, and many more. It was also selected by Queen Camilla for the Queen’s Reading Room and has been on the New York Times, Sunday Times, and Der Spiegel bestseller lists for nearly three years. Currently published in 43 territories, Lessons in Chemistryhas sold more than 8 million copies.
About the Cleveland Museum of Natural History
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History illuminates the world around us and inspires visitors to engage with the natural forces that shape their lives. Since its founding in 1920, the Museum has pioneered scientific research to advance knowledge across diverse fields of study and used its outstanding collections, which encompass millions of artifacts and specimens, to deepen the public’s understanding of the dynamic connections between humans and nature. Through its Natural Areas Program, the Museum stewards more than 12,500 acres of protected ecosystems across northern Ohio. A community gathering place, educational center, and research institution, the Museum is a vital resource that serves Cleveland and the nation. For more information, visit CMNH.org.
Media Contact
Samantha Guenther
External Communications Manager, Marketing & Communications
Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Office: 216.231.4600x3432
Mobile: 440.429.2902
sguenther@cmnh.org
