{"id":8023369351405,"title":"Glitter Everywhere","handle":"glitter-everywhere","description":"\u003ch6\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER AUTHOR\/ILLUSTRATOR INFO BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chris-barton\"\u003eChris Barton\u003c\/a\u003e \/ Illustrated by: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chaaya-prabhat\"\u003eChaaya Prabhat\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER HEADING BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFans of \u003cem\u003eHow It’s Made\u003c\/em\u003e will love this fresh, irreverent look at the science and story behind glitter.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER DESCRIPTION BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you love glitter, this book is for you. If you hate glitter, this book is also for you.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEveryone seems to have an opinion about glitter. But how much do you know about the tiny, shiny confetti? What makes glitter glitter? Why does it stick to everything? Who invented it? How is it made? Is glitter bad for the environment?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChris Barton’s informative wit and Chaaya Prabhat's vibrant art make \u003cem\u003eGlitter Everywhere\u003c\/em\u003e sparkle as it covers the good, the bad, and shiny of all things glitter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSparkle responsibly!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER RECOMMENDATIONS BELOW - - - - - - - -- - - --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"recommended-books\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you like this book, you’ll enjoy these: \u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/the-day-glo-brothers\"\u003eThe Day-Glo Brothers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/lonnie-johnsons-super-soaking-stream-of-inventions\"\u003eLonnie Johnson's Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/flip\"\u003eFlip!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - START OF TABS - - - - - - - -- - - --\u003e [TABS]\n\u003ch5\u003eWatch the Trailer\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/kejyA9twSL0\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eLook Inside\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"cvr-border-gray\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/glitter-everywhere-spread.jpg?v=1673458486\"\u003e\u003c!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --\u003e \u003cscript src=\"\/\/assets.pinterest.com\/js\/pinit.js\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" data-pin-height=\"32\" data-pin-shape=\"round\" defer async=\"\" type=\"text\/javascript\"\u003e\u003c\/script\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - ENTER DOWNLOADABLES BELOW - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDownloadables\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"medium-cover\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/glitter-everywhere-cover.jpg?v=1667585926\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"btn-wrapper\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/glitter-everywhere-cover-hires.jpeg.zip?v=1667585930\" class=\"product-btn\"\u003eDownload the Cover\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"btn-wrapper\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/glitter-everywhere-activity-kit.pdf?v=1688141691\" class=\"product-btn\"\u003eDownload the Activity Kit\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER AUTHOR BIO BELOW - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor \u0026amp; Illustrator\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChris Barton, author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChris Barton is the author of many picture books, including New York Times bestseller \u003cem\u003eShark vs. Train\u003c\/em\u003e, Sibert Honor winner \u003cem\u003eThe Day-Glo Brothers\u003c\/em\u003e, Orbis Pictus honoree \u003cem\u003eDazzle Ships\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eWhoosh! Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions\u003c\/em\u003e, included on twenty-one state reading lists. He lives in Austin, Texas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chris-barton\"\u003eRead more \u003c\/a\u003eabout Chris. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - ENTER ILLUSTRATOR BIO BELOW - - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChaaya Prabhat, illustrator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChaaya Prabhat is a graphic designer, lettering artist, and the illustrator of \u003cem\u003eBracelets for Bina's Brothers.\u003c\/em\u003e She holds an MA in graphic design from Savannah College of Art and Design. She lives and works in Chennai, India.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chaaya-prabhat\"\u003eRead more\u003c\/a\u003e about Chaaya.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - ENTER AWARDS \u0026 HONORS BELOW - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAwards \u0026amp; Honors\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA 2023 Junior Library Guild selection\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA National Public Radio \"Books We Love\" title of 2023\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA New York Public Library Best Book of 2023\u003c\/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e2024 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List\u003c\/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eBank Street College of Education's Best Children's Books of the Year 2024\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - ENTER REVIEWS BELOW - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEditorial Reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/star-fade.gif?4673889858015672850\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eBooklist\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e, starred review\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt last, a material known to every crafter for its almost-supernatural tendency to spread everywhere gets its due. Barton opens by explaining what “iridescence” is, speculating about its visual attractiveness and pointing out the places it can be observed in nature, from feathers and mica to the elytra of beetles. He details early examples of its use in art and decoration before offering a history of its modern manufacture (initially known as mineral “flitter,” then “slivers” of plastic before companies like Glitterex gave it its current name) and some of the many uses to which it has been put, including cupcakes and mixtures with Ash Wednesday ashes to “signal the welcoming of LGBTQ+ worshippers.” Its downsides are also noted, such as the use of child labor to mine mica and the fact that the bulk of it is by definition a microplastic and contributes substantially to pollution. Closing with references to efforts to create biodegradable and sustainably produced alternative glitters, he urges readers to “shimmer more thoughtfully” and rounds up sources and resources for further enlightenment. Visual sparkle is added by Prabhat’s painted images of a racially diverse cast of mostly children investigating or celebrating their glittery world amid showers of brightly hued dots. A shining example of a seeming niche filler that turns out to have significant relevance for an astonishing range of issues and interests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKirkus Reviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe whats, whys, and hows of glitter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarton began his successful writing career with a book about shining colors, The Day-Glo Brothers (2009). Here, he tackles another showy subject. In an engaging, conversational narrative, he explains why glitter sparkles, speculates on why humans like sparkly, shiny things, and looks back at historical uses. He describes glittery bits made from the wings of beetles in ancient Egypt and from mica in civilizations around the world. Barton also examines the etymology of glitter. (It was once called flitter.) Then he turns to modern glitter, made from plastics, touching on the manufacturing process as well as glitter’s small size (measurable in microns) and uses, with special attention to Mardi Gras. Barton explains why glitter clings so easily to anything it touches and unpacks environmental concerns about microplastics, which often end up in the ocean. He mentions the more recent innovation of biodegradable glitter and problems with mica mining. Throughout Prabhat’s lively digitally created art, three young people follow the investigation. On one spread, a dark-skinned child with Afro puffs peers at glitter through a microscope while a light-skinned child with long, dark brown hair uses tweezers, and a brown-skinned child gazes through a magnifying glass. There’s humor, too, mostly related to glitter’s clinginess. The author ends on a hopeful note, praising “the steps humans are taking to shimmer more thoughtfully.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn intriguing, entertaining investigation sure to catch readers’ attention. (author’s and illustrator’s notes, further reading, selective bibliography)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Horn Book\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarton explores glitter, a source of fascination (and frustration), diving into the science, history, and entrepreneurship that created the material we know today. He doesn’t shy away from the drawbacks, from everyday irritations to the serious environmental impacts of microplastics to the use of child labor in mining. But he also explores the joys of glitter, including why people have always been attracted to things that shine and sparkle. From the early days of using mica and beetle shells to create something shiny to new innovations intended to make glitter more ecologically friendly, Prabhat’s colorful, layered, collage-style digital illustrations capture its messy allure. Many spreads are flecked with small shapes, evoking glitter’s ubiquitous quality. Whether they love the stuff or loathe it, readers will find something here to pique their curiosity. Back matter includes an author’s note on Barton’s research process, an illustrator’s note, sources, and suggestions for further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSchool Library Journal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis nonfiction expedition into the history of glitter aims to, if not necessarily warm librarians up to it, at least help make plain its origins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarton approaches the twinkling topic from a multitude of angles. He writes about bioluminescence in the wild. He provides a brief bio of the inventors of “flitter,” its name before “glitter” was coined. And he informs readers about biodegradable and edible versions of an otherwise nearly indestructible plastic material. Pages are wordy, but text is clear and thoughtfully laid out amid Prabhat’s colorful, full-bleed illustrations. The facts are anchored by a diverse trio of children exploring the history of glitter, almost as if they’re on a time-traveling journey. Glitter isn’t going anywhere—literally, it’s never coming out of the carpet—so we might as well get to know it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVERDICT Although niche, this is a super accessible and fun deep dive into a craft staple. Full of fun facts for every collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003eChildren's Literature\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the author of Shark vs. Train comes a nonfiction picture book about all things glitter. This informational text starts off by explaining the history of glitter when the first version was discovered, when America started creating it, and what it was used for. The science of how glitter works is also explained in a child-appropriate and accurate way with images that help explain the material. Glitter sparkles because \"when light waves hit an object, some of them are absorbed and some are reflected. We see the reflected light.\" The many different kinds of glitter are described in all of their fascinating glory and finally, the future of glitter is described such as the environmental concerns glitter poses. The illustrations are bright and shiny and as fun as glitter-filled pages would be without the mess of actual glitter. For glitter lovers or glitter haters, this book will not disappoint! A great first purchase for any library.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003eCybil Awards, finalist review\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStrong opinions about glitter are common, but whether you love it or hate it, this book is a fascinating look at the history and science of all things sparkly! Readers will learn what iridescence is, how it works, and how human use of shimmery beetles in ancient Egypt and shiny mica in South African cave paintings led to the development of what we now know as glitter. There is a discussion of various applications for glitter, from crafts to cupcakes, as well as future glitter innovations to help make new types of sparkles that are not harmful to the earth. An author's note, bibliography, and selected further reading suggestions round out this fun exploration of a very niche topic. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER DETAILS BELOW - - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDetails\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHardcover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN: 978-1-62354-252-8\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAges: 5-8\u003cbr\u003ePage count: 48\u003cbr\u003e10 x 8\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n[\/TABS]","published_at":"2023-01-12T10:43:59-05:00","created_at":"2022-11-07T14:46:38-05:00","vendor":"Charlesbridge","type":"Children's Book","tags":["Browse by Age_Ages 3-6","Browse by Age_Ages 6-10","Browse by Fiction\/Nonfiction_Nonfiction","Browse by Format_Picture Book","Browse by Language_English","Browse by Subject_Art\/Music\/Theater","Browse by Subject_History \u0026 Biography","Browse by Subject_Science \u0026 Nature"],"price":1999,"price_min":1999,"price_max":1999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":43471704916205,"title":"Hardcover","option1":"Hardcover","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"42528","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":38074965819629,"product_id":8023369351405,"position":1,"created_at":"2022-11-07T14:50:35-05:00","updated_at":"2022-11-07T14:50:37-05:00","alt":null,"width":600,"height":480,"src":"\/\/www.charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/glitter-everywhere-cover.jpg?v=1667850637","variant_ids":[43471704916205]},"available":true,"name":"Glitter Everywhere - Hardcover","public_title":"Hardcover","options":["Hardcover"],"price":1999,"weight":567,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":8,"inventory_management":"shopify","inventory_policy":"continue","barcode":"978-1-62354-252-8","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":30660799758573,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.25,"height":480,"width":600,"src":"\/\/www.charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/glitter-everywhere-cover.jpg?v=1667850637"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/glitter-everywhere-cover.jpg?v=1667850637"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/glitter-everywhere-cover.jpg?v=1667850637","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":30660799758573,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.25,"height":480,"width":600,"src":"\/\/www.charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/glitter-everywhere-cover.jpg?v=1667850637"},"aspect_ratio":1.25,"height":480,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.charlesbridgemoves.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/glitter-everywhere-cover.jpg?v=1667850637","width":600}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch6\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER AUTHOR\/ILLUSTRATOR INFO BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chris-barton\"\u003eChris Barton\u003c\/a\u003e \/ Illustrated by: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chaaya-prabhat\"\u003eChaaya Prabhat\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER HEADING BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFans of \u003cem\u003eHow It’s Made\u003c\/em\u003e will love this fresh, irreverent look at the science and story behind glitter.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - ENTER DESCRIPTION BELOW - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you love glitter, this book is for you. If you hate glitter, this book is also for you.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEveryone seems to have an opinion about glitter. But how much do you know about the tiny, shiny confetti? What makes glitter glitter? Why does it stick to everything? Who invented it? How is it made? Is glitter bad for the environment?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChris Barton’s informative wit and Chaaya Prabhat's vibrant art make \u003cem\u003eGlitter Everywhere\u003c\/em\u003e sparkle as it covers the good, the bad, and shiny of all things glitter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSparkle responsibly!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER RECOMMENDATIONS BELOW - - - - - - - -- - - --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"recommended-books\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you like this book, you’ll enjoy these: \u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/the-day-glo-brothers\"\u003eThe Day-Glo Brothers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/lonnie-johnsons-super-soaking-stream-of-inventions\"\u003eLonnie Johnson's Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/flip\"\u003eFlip!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - START OF TABS - - - - - - - -- - - --\u003e [TABS]\n\u003ch5\u003eWatch the Trailer\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/kejyA9twSL0\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eLook Inside\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"cvr-border-gray\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/glitter-everywhere-spread.jpg?v=1673458486\"\u003e\u003c!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --\u003e \u003cscript src=\"\/\/assets.pinterest.com\/js\/pinit.js\" data-pin-hover=\"true\" data-pin-height=\"32\" data-pin-shape=\"round\" defer async=\"\" type=\"text\/javascript\"\u003e\u003c\/script\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - ENTER DOWNLOADABLES BELOW - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDownloadables\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"medium-cover\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/glitter-everywhere-cover.jpg?v=1667585926\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"btn-wrapper\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/glitter-everywhere-cover-hires.jpeg.zip?v=1667585930\" class=\"product-btn\"\u003eDownload the Cover\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"btn-wrapper\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/glitter-everywhere-activity-kit.pdf?v=1688141691\" class=\"product-btn\"\u003eDownload the Activity Kit\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER AUTHOR BIO BELOW - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor \u0026amp; Illustrator\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChris Barton, author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChris Barton is the author of many picture books, including New York Times bestseller \u003cem\u003eShark vs. Train\u003c\/em\u003e, Sibert Honor winner \u003cem\u003eThe Day-Glo Brothers\u003c\/em\u003e, Orbis Pictus honoree \u003cem\u003eDazzle Ships\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eWhoosh! Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions\u003c\/em\u003e, included on twenty-one state reading lists. He lives in Austin, Texas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chris-barton\"\u003eRead more \u003c\/a\u003eabout Chris. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - ENTER ILLUSTRATOR BIO BELOW - - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChaaya Prabhat, illustrator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChaaya Prabhat is a graphic designer, lettering artist, and the illustrator of \u003cem\u003eBracelets for Bina's Brothers.\u003c\/em\u003e She holds an MA in graphic design from Savannah College of Art and Design. She lives and works in Chennai, India.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chaaya-prabhat\"\u003eRead more\u003c\/a\u003e about Chaaya.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - ENTER AWARDS \u0026 HONORS BELOW - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAwards \u0026amp; Honors\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA 2023 Junior Library Guild selection\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA National Public Radio \"Books We Love\" title of 2023\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA New York Public Library Best Book of 2023\u003c\/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e2024 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List\u003c\/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eBank Street College of Education's Best Children's Books of the Year 2024\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - ENTER REVIEWS BELOW - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEditorial Reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/0101\/files\/star-fade.gif?4673889858015672850\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eBooklist\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e, starred review\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt last, a material known to every crafter for its almost-supernatural tendency to spread everywhere gets its due. Barton opens by explaining what “iridescence” is, speculating about its visual attractiveness and pointing out the places it can be observed in nature, from feathers and mica to the elytra of beetles. He details early examples of its use in art and decoration before offering a history of its modern manufacture (initially known as mineral “flitter,” then “slivers” of plastic before companies like Glitterex gave it its current name) and some of the many uses to which it has been put, including cupcakes and mixtures with Ash Wednesday ashes to “signal the welcoming of LGBTQ+ worshippers.” Its downsides are also noted, such as the use of child labor to mine mica and the fact that the bulk of it is by definition a microplastic and contributes substantially to pollution. Closing with references to efforts to create biodegradable and sustainably produced alternative glitters, he urges readers to “shimmer more thoughtfully” and rounds up sources and resources for further enlightenment. Visual sparkle is added by Prabhat’s painted images of a racially diverse cast of mostly children investigating or celebrating their glittery world amid showers of brightly hued dots. A shining example of a seeming niche filler that turns out to have significant relevance for an astonishing range of issues and interests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKirkus Reviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe whats, whys, and hows of glitter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarton began his successful writing career with a book about shining colors, The Day-Glo Brothers (2009). Here, he tackles another showy subject. In an engaging, conversational narrative, he explains why glitter sparkles, speculates on why humans like sparkly, shiny things, and looks back at historical uses. He describes glittery bits made from the wings of beetles in ancient Egypt and from mica in civilizations around the world. Barton also examines the etymology of glitter. (It was once called flitter.) Then he turns to modern glitter, made from plastics, touching on the manufacturing process as well as glitter’s small size (measurable in microns) and uses, with special attention to Mardi Gras. Barton explains why glitter clings so easily to anything it touches and unpacks environmental concerns about microplastics, which often end up in the ocean. He mentions the more recent innovation of biodegradable glitter and problems with mica mining. Throughout Prabhat’s lively digitally created art, three young people follow the investigation. On one spread, a dark-skinned child with Afro puffs peers at glitter through a microscope while a light-skinned child with long, dark brown hair uses tweezers, and a brown-skinned child gazes through a magnifying glass. There’s humor, too, mostly related to glitter’s clinginess. The author ends on a hopeful note, praising “the steps humans are taking to shimmer more thoughtfully.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn intriguing, entertaining investigation sure to catch readers’ attention. (author’s and illustrator’s notes, further reading, selective bibliography)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Horn Book\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarton explores glitter, a source of fascination (and frustration), diving into the science, history, and entrepreneurship that created the material we know today. He doesn’t shy away from the drawbacks, from everyday irritations to the serious environmental impacts of microplastics to the use of child labor in mining. But he also explores the joys of glitter, including why people have always been attracted to things that shine and sparkle. From the early days of using mica and beetle shells to create something shiny to new innovations intended to make glitter more ecologically friendly, Prabhat’s colorful, layered, collage-style digital illustrations capture its messy allure. Many spreads are flecked with small shapes, evoking glitter’s ubiquitous quality. Whether they love the stuff or loathe it, readers will find something here to pique their curiosity. Back matter includes an author’s note on Barton’s research process, an illustrator’s note, sources, and suggestions for further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSchool Library Journal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis nonfiction expedition into the history of glitter aims to, if not necessarily warm librarians up to it, at least help make plain its origins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarton approaches the twinkling topic from a multitude of angles. He writes about bioluminescence in the wild. He provides a brief bio of the inventors of “flitter,” its name before “glitter” was coined. And he informs readers about biodegradable and edible versions of an otherwise nearly indestructible plastic material. Pages are wordy, but text is clear and thoughtfully laid out amid Prabhat’s colorful, full-bleed illustrations. The facts are anchored by a diverse trio of children exploring the history of glitter, almost as if they’re on a time-traveling journey. Glitter isn’t going anywhere—literally, it’s never coming out of the carpet—so we might as well get to know it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVERDICT Although niche, this is a super accessible and fun deep dive into a craft staple. Full of fun facts for every collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003eChildren's Literature\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the author of Shark vs. Train comes a nonfiction picture book about all things glitter. This informational text starts off by explaining the history of glitter when the first version was discovered, when America started creating it, and what it was used for. The science of how glitter works is also explained in a child-appropriate and accurate way with images that help explain the material. Glitter sparkles because \"when light waves hit an object, some of them are absorbed and some are reflected. We see the reflected light.\" The many different kinds of glitter are described in all of their fascinating glory and finally, the future of glitter is described such as the environmental concerns glitter poses. The illustrations are bright and shiny and as fun as glitter-filled pages would be without the mess of actual glitter. For glitter lovers or glitter haters, this book will not disappoint! A great first purchase for any library.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003eCybil Awards, finalist review\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStrong opinions about glitter are common, but whether you love it or hate it, this book is a fascinating look at the history and science of all things sparkly! Readers will learn what iridescence is, how it works, and how human use of shimmery beetles in ancient Egypt and shiny mica in South African cave paintings led to the development of what we now know as glitter. There is a discussion of various applications for glitter, from crafts to cupcakes, as well as future glitter innovations to help make new types of sparkles that are not harmful to the earth. An author's note, bibliography, and selected further reading suggestions round out this fun exploration of a very niche topic. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003c!-- - - - - - - - - - - - ENTER DETAILS BELOW - - - - - - - - - - - --\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDetails\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHardcover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN: 978-1-62354-252-8\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAges: 5-8\u003cbr\u003ePage count: 48\u003cbr\u003e10 x 8\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n[\/TABS]"}

Glitter Everywhere


By: Chris Barton / Illustrated by: Chaaya Prabhat

Fans of How It’s Made will love this fresh, irreverent look at the science and story behind glitter.

If you love glitter, this book is for you. If you hate glitter, this book is also for you.

Everyone seems to have an opinion about glitter. But how much do you know about the tiny, shiny confetti? What makes glitter glitter? Why does it stick to everything? Who invented it? How is it made? Is glitter bad for the environment?

Chris Barton’s informative wit and Chaaya Prabhat's vibrant art make Glitter Everywhere sparkle as it covers the good, the bad, and shiny of all things glitter.

Sparkle responsibly!

Maximum quantity available reached.

Chris Barton, author

Chris Barton is the author of many picture books, including New York Times bestseller Shark vs. Train, Sibert Honor winner The Day-Glo Brothers, Orbis Pictus honoree Dazzle Ships, and Whoosh! Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions, included on twenty-one state reading lists. He lives in Austin, Texas.

Read more about Chris. 


Chaaya Prabhat, illustrator

Chaaya Prabhat is a graphic designer, lettering artist, and the illustrator of Bracelets for Bina's Brothers. She holds an MA in graphic design from Savannah College of Art and Design. She lives and works in Chennai, India.

Read more about Chaaya.

  • A 2023 Junior Library Guild selection
  • A National Public Radio "Books We Love" title of 2023
  • A New York Public Library Best Book of 2023
  • 2024 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List
  • Bank Street College of Education's Best Children's Books of the Year 2024

Booklist, starred review

At last, a material known to every crafter for its almost-supernatural tendency to spread everywhere gets its due. Barton opens by explaining what “iridescence” is, speculating about its visual attractiveness and pointing out the places it can be observed in nature, from feathers and mica to the elytra of beetles. He details early examples of its use in art and decoration before offering a history of its modern manufacture (initially known as mineral “flitter,” then “slivers” of plastic before companies like Glitterex gave it its current name) and some of the many uses to which it has been put, including cupcakes and mixtures with Ash Wednesday ashes to “signal the welcoming of LGBTQ+ worshippers.” Its downsides are also noted, such as the use of child labor to mine mica and the fact that the bulk of it is by definition a microplastic and contributes substantially to pollution. Closing with references to efforts to create biodegradable and sustainably produced alternative glitters, he urges readers to “shimmer more thoughtfully” and rounds up sources and resources for further enlightenment. Visual sparkle is added by Prabhat’s painted images of a racially diverse cast of mostly children investigating or celebrating their glittery world amid showers of brightly hued dots. A shining example of a seeming niche filler that turns out to have significant relevance for an astonishing range of issues and interests.

Kirkus Reviews

The whats, whys, and hows of glitter.

Barton began his successful writing career with a book about shining colors, The Day-Glo Brothers (2009). Here, he tackles another showy subject. In an engaging, conversational narrative, he explains why glitter sparkles, speculates on why humans like sparkly, shiny things, and looks back at historical uses. He describes glittery bits made from the wings of beetles in ancient Egypt and from mica in civilizations around the world. Barton also examines the etymology of glitter. (It was once called flitter.) Then he turns to modern glitter, made from plastics, touching on the manufacturing process as well as glitter’s small size (measurable in microns) and uses, with special attention to Mardi Gras. Barton explains why glitter clings so easily to anything it touches and unpacks environmental concerns about microplastics, which often end up in the ocean. He mentions the more recent innovation of biodegradable glitter and problems with mica mining. Throughout Prabhat’s lively digitally created art, three young people follow the investigation. On one spread, a dark-skinned child with Afro puffs peers at glitter through a microscope while a light-skinned child with long, dark brown hair uses tweezers, and a brown-skinned child gazes through a magnifying glass. There’s humor, too, mostly related to glitter’s clinginess. The author ends on a hopeful note, praising “the steps humans are taking to shimmer more thoughtfully.”

An intriguing, entertaining investigation sure to catch readers’ attention. (author’s and illustrator’s notes, further reading, selective bibliography)

The Horn Book

Barton explores glitter, a source of fascination (and frustration), diving into the science, history, and entrepreneurship that created the material we know today. He doesn’t shy away from the drawbacks, from everyday irritations to the serious environmental impacts of microplastics to the use of child labor in mining. But he also explores the joys of glitter, including why people have always been attracted to things that shine and sparkle. From the early days of using mica and beetle shells to create something shiny to new innovations intended to make glitter more ecologically friendly, Prabhat’s colorful, layered, collage-style digital illustrations capture its messy allure. Many spreads are flecked with small shapes, evoking glitter’s ubiquitous quality. Whether they love the stuff or loathe it, readers will find something here to pique their curiosity. Back matter includes an author’s note on Barton’s research process, an illustrator’s note, sources, and suggestions for further reading.

School Library Journal

This nonfiction expedition into the history of glitter aims to, if not necessarily warm librarians up to it, at least help make plain its origins.

Barton approaches the twinkling topic from a multitude of angles. He writes about bioluminescence in the wild. He provides a brief bio of the inventors of “flitter,” its name before “glitter” was coined. And he informs readers about biodegradable and edible versions of an otherwise nearly indestructible plastic material. Pages are wordy, but text is clear and thoughtfully laid out amid Prabhat’s colorful, full-bleed illustrations. The facts are anchored by a diverse trio of children exploring the history of glitter, almost as if they’re on a time-traveling journey. Glitter isn’t going anywhere—literally, it’s never coming out of the carpet—so we might as well get to know it.

VERDICT Although niche, this is a super accessible and fun deep dive into a craft staple. Full of fun facts for every collection.

Children's Literature

From the author of Shark vs. Train comes a nonfiction picture book about all things glitter. This informational text starts off by explaining the history of glitter when the first version was discovered, when America started creating it, and what it was used for. The science of how glitter works is also explained in a child-appropriate and accurate way with images that help explain the material. Glitter sparkles because "when light waves hit an object, some of them are absorbed and some are reflected. We see the reflected light." The many different kinds of glitter are described in all of their fascinating glory and finally, the future of glitter is described such as the environmental concerns glitter poses. The illustrations are bright and shiny and as fun as glitter-filled pages would be without the mess of actual glitter. For glitter lovers or glitter haters, this book will not disappoint! A great first purchase for any library.

Cybil Awards, finalist review

Strong opinions about glitter are common, but whether you love it or hate it, this book is a fascinating look at the history and science of all things sparkly! Readers will learn what iridescence is, how it works, and how human use of shimmery beetles in ancient Egypt and shiny mica in South African cave paintings led to the development of what we now know as glitter. There is a discussion of various applications for glitter, from crafts to cupcakes, as well as future glitter innovations to help make new types of sparkles that are not harmful to the earth. An author's note, bibliography, and selected further reading suggestions round out this fun exploration of a very niche topic.

Hardcover
ISBN: 978-1-62354-252-8

Ages: 5-8
Page count: 48
10 x 8