Customer Reviews

Really Good Logos Explained: Top Design Professionals Critique 500 Logos and Explain What Makes Them Work

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[I should start with the fact that I have a logo in this book.]

Excited and nervous at the same time, I flipped through to find that the book was pretty much as advertised -- critiques and analysis by 4 top creative minds on some 500 great logos! However, it seems that the book may have been rushed to it's completion. Not all the logos are critiqued by all 4 authors. And there's no explanation as to why that is.

Some logos only see a critique by as little as 1 of 4 authors. To me, what gave the book its charm was the idea that 4 different experts could give their own unique analysis and the reader could study their debate -- even participating in it to some degree. Left with 1 person's input, the reader loses any tension and the ability to decipher the group's thoughts -- leaving the reader less engaged.

So what was it that gave some logos more attention and others less? Was it that the publisher didn't allow enough time? Or was it that there was simply nothing to say? -- Which, ironically, in a Q&A at the beginning of the book with Margo Chase, when asked what is the worst thing she could hear from a client was, she answered "Nothing." Hmm.

Overall, I think that most people interested in logos are going to find this book pleasing and be happy with their purchase. It goes far and above the standard logo books that lack any dialog. I just wish that the concept had been followed through to it's completion. A small qualm in an otherwise good book.

I think this book succeeds where some others fail. For one, it's one step away from being a picture book of logos, which in some causes, tends to become a way to 'fish' for ideas when confronted with a design brief.

I like that the authors have commented on the work, though I don't necessarily agree with the comments. It's easy to look at the work post-production and say 'it would be better if...' The critics are not privy to the discussion that happened during the development process, and these discussions are what inform the work.

Unfortunately, for this book, some of the commentary is simply judgmental and unnecessary, and goes back to the personal taste of the judges. What makes design great, is that there are many individuals out there who can impart their level of aesthetic on the world. What would be the purpose if we all conformed to one person's aesthetic?

Overall, a good addition to your design collection. Would also recommend any of the Logo Lounge books.

Great book. This will give any designer some fantastic insight as to how great logo designers think and the details of what they look for as they design. This is a must-have for anyone designing identities! I've been in this business for nearly 16 years and I learned a ton from reading this. In fact, I'd really like to see more books like this. How about: "Great Web Designs Explained" or "Great Layouts Explained."