Getting it Right with Type: The Dos and Don'ts of Typography

by Victoria Squire

Typography is no longer the specialist domain of the these days anyone who uses a computer has access to a wide range of typefaces and effects. This book offers an introduction to the basics of typography, including choosing which typeface to use; adjusting letter-, line-, and word-spacing for improved legibility; understanding kerning and leading; and mastering typographic details, such as italics, punctuation, and line endings. The book is illustrated throughout with practical examples demonstrating good and bad solutions. There are tips for specific design tasks, such as letters, charts, tables, and design for the screen, and a glossary explaining typographic terms.

Genres: Design, Nonfiction

176 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2007

Reviews

[M]

Books on typography are pretty much always annoying because of the tone of the authors. They have extremely strong feelings about serifs and kerning, and that's just hilarious. This one is no different. However, it does have a section with different paper types to demonstrate how different fonts work on various papers. Overall, great summer read . . .

[Andrew]

I use this book as a supplementary text in one of the design classes that I teach at Parsons. It has some excellent examples that I've found helpful to illustrate issues around spacing, composition, legibility and structure.

Its not the only book I would use, and I don't think I would require it as a text for a class, but its a good basic reference for the novice design student.

[Jen]

It's not up there with Robert Bringhurst but it's so devilishly simple to understand and use on a day-to-day basis. At least your typesetting will improve after consulting this book!

[Tony]

My hobby: Driving around town and blacklisting all the restaurants and stores that use papyrus sans in any of their banners and signs.

[Zach]

Could use more creative and real-world examples of the "do's and don'ts" promised in the title, but overall a decent introduction to typography.

[Bishopsring Penny]

One of the best books for typography.

[Holly Raymond]

In the end, I did get it right, and I got it with type.