A plastic elastic favorite

Smelling of basketballs and Barbies, this bright orange rubber-bound book looks like the perfect waterproof tome for the die-hard bathtub reader.

With more than 500 color images in 100-plus pages, the book is a colorful, informative and unscientific look at the commonplace items made of the elastic substance that affect our everyday lives.

The writers showcase the high end (inventive Netherlands designers Droog) to the high-end low end (silicone playmates) and everything in between (computer keyboards, contraceptives, prosthetics, clothing).

In the USA Today-style book, text appears inside balloons, wraps around rubber snakes, encircles ice cube trays and fishing lures. Some pages forgo text in favor of the two-page color spread. What better way to showcase Playtex swim caps and bouncing balls?

There’s nothing earth-shattering about it. “Rubber” is essentially a fun-filled look at the history of rubber and its origins. Ever wondered about the genesis of condoms? The evolution of Dunlop tires? Bug-resistant mulch? Probably not. But it’s a testament to this engaging book that you’ll want to find out.

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Lisa Boone