Bonnie Garmus

#1 New York Times Bestselling Author of ‘Life in Chemistry’ & ‘Peck & Peck’, Waterstone’s Author of The Year & One of Forbes 50 Over 50

Bonnie Garmus’s Biography:

Bonnie Garmus is a globally bestselling author whose debut novel, Lessons in Chemistry, became one of the most celebrated literary success stories of recent years. A number one bestseller on the New York Times, Sunday Times and Der Spiegel lists, Bonnie captivated readers around the world with her unique blend of humour, social commentary and compelling storytelling. Since its publication in 2022, Lessons in Chemistry has sold millions of copies, been translated into more than 40 languages and inspired a critically acclaimed Apple TV+ adaptation starring Brie Larson. As a speaker, Bonnie offers fascinating insights into creativity, perseverance, publishing and the power of storytelling to challenge perceptions and inspire change.

Bonnie earned a bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing and Aesthetic Studies from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Before becoming a novelist, she built a successful career as a copywriter and creative director, working across a variety of industries in the United States. Her professional life also took her overseas, living and working in Switzerland and Colombia before eventually settling in the United Kingdom. Alongside her writing career, Bonnie is a keen open-water swimmer, an activity that has long been an important source of discipline, focus and inspiration.

In 2022, Bonnie published her debut novel, Lessons in Chemistry. The novel quickly became an international phenomenon, earning widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. By 2023, the book had been sold into 42 territories and established Bonnie as one of the most exciting new voices in contemporary fiction. In 2025, she published her highly anticipated second novel, Peck & Peck, further cementing her reputation as a major literary talent. Her work is celebrated for its intelligent humour, memorable characters and exploration of themes including gender equality, resilience and ambition.

Bonnie’s achievements have been recognised through numerous awards and accolades. She was named British Book Awards Author of the Year in 2023 and received the Paul Torday Memorial Prize. Lessons in Chemistry was selected as a New York Times 100 Best Books of the 21st Century title and featured in ABC Radio National’s Top 100 Books of the 21st Century. The novel was also named Barnes & Noble Book of the Year, Waterstones Author of the Year, Goodreads Choice Awards Best Debut winner and Hay Festival Book of the Year. Additional recognition came from Forbes 50 Over 50, NPR, Amazon, Good Housekeeping UK and the Sunday Times, confirming Bonnie’s place among the most influential literary voices of her generation.

Why Hire Bonnie Garmus?

Bonnie is hired as a speaker for her remarkable journey from advertising executive to internationally bestselling author. Her experiences navigating career reinvention, creative risk-taking and global success provide audiences with valuable lessons on resilience, persistence and pursuing ambitious goals later in life. She offers a refreshing perspective on creativity, innovation and overcoming barriers to success.

Her speaking engagements draw upon the extraordinary impact of Lessons in Chemistry, which sparked worldwide conversations about gender equality, ambition and societal expectations. Bonnie combines warmth, intelligence and humour with real-world experience, creating engaging presentations that resonate with corporate audiences, leadership events, literary festivals and educational institutions alike.

Bonnie Garmus’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Bonnie Garmus’s remarkable career:

• 2025 – Published her highly anticipated second novel, Peck & Peck, following the global success of Lessons in Chemistry.
• 2024 – Lessons in Chemistry continued its worldwide success through the acclaimed Apple TV+ adaptation starring Brie Larson.
• 2023 – Named British Book Awards Author of the Year.
• 2023 – Lessons in Chemistry was sold into 42 international territories.
• 2023 – Received the Paul Torday Memorial Prize.
• 2022 – Published debut novel Lessons in Chemistry, which became an international bestseller.
• 2022 – Named Waterstones Author of the Year.
• 2022 – Won the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Debut Novel.
• 2022 – Lessons in Chemistry was named Barnes & Noble Book of the Year and Hay Festival Book of the Year.
• 2022 – Achieved number one positions on the New York Times, Sunday Times and Der Spiegel bestseller lists.