Module 11 - The Day-Glo Brothers: The True Story of Bob and Joe Switzer's Bright Ideas and Brand-New Colors

Book
The Day-Glo Brothers: The True Story of Bob and Joe Switzer's Bright Ideas and Brand-New Colors
Written by Chris Barton
Illustrated by Tony Persiani

Citation
Barton, C. (2009). The Day-Glo brothers: The true story of Bob and Joe Switzer's bright ideas and brand-new colors. Watertown [Mass.]: Charlesbridge.

Summary
From start to finish, The Day-Glo Brothers gives information regarding how Day-glo, or neon, colors came to be and how they are used because of their unique qualities. Through the trials of a failed science experiment to the life-saving uses, this picture, informational book gives factual evidence that not all fads begin and end quickly. Beautifully illustrated with neon colors, the story is stunning in facts, underlying character-building depictions, and colorful pictures.

Reviews
School Library Journal (August 1, 2009): Gr 4-6-Before 1935, fluorescent colors did not exist. Barton discusses how two brothers worked together to create the eye-popping hues. Joe Switzer figured out that using a black light to create a fluorescent glow could spruce up his magic act, so the brothers built an ultraviolet lamp. They began to experiment with various chemicals to make glow-in-the-dark paints. Soon Joe used fluorescent-colored paper costumes in his act and word got around. Through trial and error, the brothers perfected their creation. The story is written in clear language and includes whimsical cartoons. While endpapers are Day-Glo bright, most of the story is illustrated in black, white, gray, and touches of color, culminating in vivid spreads. Discussions on regular fluorescence and daylight fluorescence are appended. This unique book does an excellent job of describing an innovative process.

Kirkus Reviews starred (June 15, 2009):The Switzer brothers were complete opposites. Older brother Bob was hardworking and practical, while younger brother Joe was carefree and full of creative, wacky ideas. However, when an unexpected injury forced Bob to spend months recovering in a darkened basement, the two brothers happened upon an illuminating adventure--the discovery of Day-Glo colors. These glowing paints were used to send signals in World War II, help airplanes land safely at night and are now found worldwide in art and advertisements (not to mention the entire decade of 1980s fashion). Through extensive research, including Switzer family interviews and Bob's own handwritten account of events, debut author Barton brings two unknown inventors into the brilliant light they deserve. Persiani, in his picture-book debut as well, first limits the palette to grayscale, then gradually increases the use of color as the brothers' experiments progress. The final pages explode in Day-Glo radiance. Rendered in 1950s-cartoon style, with bold lines and stretched perspectives, these two putty-limbed brothers shine even more brightly than the paints and dyes they created. (author's note, endnotes) (Picture book/biography. 4-8)

Suggested Use
This story lends itself to the content area of science. Using The Day-Glo Brothers as a jumping off point, teachers can introduce the science fair, pointing out that the Switzer brothers wanted different things, had different gifts, talents, and abilities and were able to combine these things to create something wonderful.

Impression
I found this informational book thrilling and easy to follow, unlike some informational books. I thought the wording of the story kept the flow going while still including interesting facts and tidbits of science and entertainment that information seekers would like. The colors of the illustrations are perfect in that they allow the reader to experience and understand what Day-Glo and its evolution looked like.