Pop!: The Invention of Bubble Gum

Walter Diemer, an accountant with the Fleer chewing gum company, slowly begins experimenting with ingredients, trying to create bubblegum. One batch is a near misshis co-workers happily blow bubbles, but the next day the mixture was as hard as a rock. But with time, top secret ingredients, and the now classic pink coloring, he finally nails it: at a mom-and-pop store, kids blow bubbles for the first time. McCarthys thickly painted acrylic cartoons create an expressive 1920s backdrop with bug-eyed characters dressed in the eras fashions. A closing section supplies numerous facts about gum. Unlike its subject matter, this history lesson is easily digestible. Ages 48. "(May)" Copyright 2010 Publishers Weekly Used with permission.

Gr 24This picture-book biography of the inventor of bubblegum is equal parts informative and entertaining. With appropriately simple but engaging prose, McCarthy relates how accountant Walter Diemer began "playing with different mixtures" in the late 1920s at the candy factory where he worked and eventually discovered a gum that bubbled. Judicious use of the inventor's own words helps to convey his enthusiastic personality. Along with Diemer's story, the author also covers a bit of gum history, the trial-and-error of invention, and the excitement that comes with a successful final product, all with just the right level of detail. Appealing acrylic cartoon illustrations fill this snippet of history with a sense of fun. The prominent curves of smiling faces and circular eyes and heads stand out against heavy lines and angles to fill each scene with playfulness that matches the subject. Rich colors capture the lighthearted joy of bubble blowers, both old and young, while contrasting darker tones reflect the drama of the inventor's lab work. A closing spread offers further information about Diemer's life, more fun facts about gum, and a full list of sources. Although the man will be unfamiliar to young readers, they know his invention well, and will appreciate his unexpected but well-earned success. McCarthy's on-target presentation makes this a strong choice for elementary biography assignments, booktalking, or just plain nonfiction fun."Steven Engelfried, Multnomah County Library, OR" Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"A sweetly told, worthy tale—the world needs more heroes like Walter." - KIRKUS