Learning how to stay clean throughout the ages and areas of the earth is fascinating. The generic term ‘germs’ actually refers to bacteria, virus, fungi, and protozoa; and each gets a brief explanation of what they are. The illustrations are engaging and one has to read every part of every page so as not miss out on the fun this book offers. For soap to work it needs to have an oil-attracting end and a water-attracting end. Science words such as hydrophilic, surfactant, and sapofication (the making of soap) are used and seamlessly explained in the text. Legend has it that water was mixed with ashes and animal fats from sacrifices on Mount Sapo. The reader learns about chemical and physical changes and soap is a great model to teach this. The history of washing machines through the ages is illustrated. Detergents are surfactants, like soap; but they are not made from natural substances, work better in hard water, and are often harsher. Surprisingly, detergents have been used to cleaning oil spills and putting out fires. In 1960 phosphates were added to make clothes brighter but caused environmental damage. Even details such as the why the use of antibacterial soap is not a good idea, are explained. Everything about this book is a win-win. Teachers, students, and parents will find great information and fun experiments in this book, part of the “You Wouldn’t Want to Live Without” series. Reviewer: RevaBeth Russell; Ages 8 to 12.
