The scourge of many a household, glitter’s iridescence also makes it undeniably appealing. An explanation of the science behind why and how glitter shines begins this sparkling work of nonfiction. Evidence of human fascination with all that glitters includes iridescent beetle wings used by ancient Egyptians to decorate Tutankhamun’s tomb, and bits of mica that added sparkle to South African cave paintings, Greek pottery, and Mayan temple walls. More recently, early 20th invetningcentury U.S. manufacturers “cut mica, metal and paper into tiny pieces they called … flitter.” When the U.S. military required mica during World War II, Henry F. Ruschmann invented “slivers”—cut bits of thin plastic Eventually, Ruschmann’s sliver operation evolved into a glitter factory that is still in operation today. Over time, competitors created their own glitter, and the process was streamlined by cutting shapes with straight edges (less waste than circles) using a range of materials. Glitter pieces got smaller and were used in more and more products, from makeup to motorcycles. The final pages explain why glitter’s negative electrical charge causes it to stick so annoyingly to everything it touches; the negative impact of microplastics, including glitter, on the environment; and the dangers of mica mining, often performed by children. Recently developed biodegradable glitters sourced from plant cellulose and tree sap resin filled with hatched insect eggs may offer safer ways to continue sparkling. This fascinating history is as irresistible as glitter itself. (Ages 6-10)

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.