Title: Glitter Everywhere! Where it Came From, Where It's Found & Where It's Going. By Chris Barton and Illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat.
Genre: Children's Non-fiction
Targeted Age: PreK-2nd Grade
Plot Summary: This is a book all about glitter. Facts about its' origins when it was named flitter are included as well as facts of how it has changed, as well as the positive and negatives surrounding glitter today. Prabhat's colorful illustrations will keep the attention of non-readers long enough to hear the longer text segments.
Justification for book choice: This is a non-fiction book that is beautifully illustrated. Glitter is something that is familiar and yet not a common item to learn facts about. It has also won several awards including the 2024 Texas Topaz Award.
Evaluation:
Illustration Composition: The illustrations of this book make the reader forget that this is a non-fiction book. While some non-fiction books have traditionally included photographs, the beautifully painted illustration are cheerful, detailed and as colorful as the subject matter. The images flow around the text with engaging images that have children interacting with glitter.
Design and Layout: One element that I appreciate when reading non-fiction to children, is the option to choose the depth of information to share based on the audience. Each page has several segments of text full of facts. The illustrations also allow for flexible opportunities to share the content. Additional information and resources shared in the back pages allow for a more extensive educational depth if desired.
Accuracy: I did not have any doubt about the facts presented in this book. References were provided at the end of the book, but were not included or distracting within the text. The amount of details kept the book interesting but kept the descriptions short and appropriate for the intended audience.
Citation:
Barton, C. (2023). Glitter Everywhere! Where it Came From, Where It's Found & Where It's Going (illus. Chaaya Prabhat). Charlesbridge.