Exploring Typography

by Tova Rabinowitz

What do designers need to know about typography? The answer can be found in this richly illustrated book that examines the varied uses of type in contemporary visual communications. Exploring Typography takes a concise but thorough approach to introducing and examining the principles of typography. Coverage begins with a brief history of type and a survey of how type is classified. Readers then learn about the physical components of letters and the rules of legibility, readability, and style. Subsequent chapters survey the creative use of emphasis, designing effective layouts, using grids, and developing original type styles. Finally, the author examines contemporary challenges in type while introducing terminology and concepts relevant to designing with type in a digital environment.

Genres: Design, Nonfiction, Reference

414 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[J.W. Donley]

This was a great overview of the field. A good intro for folks new to the study of typography to get their bearings.

[Sara]

Loved this!! Great for beginners in Graphic design.

[Penelope Lake]

Best book on Typography I've found. Excellent information on history of typography, typography anatomy, type categories (humanist, geometric sans, etc.) and way more. My copy of this book is already starting to wear down. If you like typography, get this book. Though don't spend $50 on it. Buy it used for cheap. It's worth more than $50, but who wants to spend that much on a book? You can also find it in most libraries, at least in our area.

[Roberto]

This book is an excellent educational resource. It should be a must for graphic designers and students. The language is pretty accessible and the examples used to illustrate the author's points are relevant. Designing type (chapter 8th) is packed with useful information that shines a light into the obscure world of type design. This is the best typography book I've read that actually explains typography! I highly recommend it to anybody interested in the subject.

[Scott]

Very good typography reference.