Customer Reviews

Type Now: A Manifesto

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I do not doubt Smeijers' importance in the type world. This book is divided into a few sections describing the man and his work. The first is a longish essay on type, computers, education, and whatever else came to mind. It ends with "A code of conduct," guidelines for ethical practice, mostly applicable to anyone in any creative pursuit. There's a brief glossary, possibly too brief to answer more than cursory questions.

I very much like the next section. It's more or less of a Smeijers specimen book and portfolio. Each font is demonstrated in a full piece of readable text, not just quick brown foxes. That really gives me the feel of the font, as I would experience it in normal reading - something I wish I could see more often. Best, the text chosen is a brief essay written by Christopher Plantin in the 17th century, material of interest in itself. Next, there's an annotated gallery a few pages long, academic and commerical work, and the book ends with a brief time-line of Smeijers' career.

Still, I was looking for something that would teach me more about type, letters, typography, or other aspects of design. Instead, the book teaches me about Smeijers. Thus, my disappointment in the book and a rating lower than another reader might give.

//wiredweird

Published with the occasion of second Gerrit Noordzij Prize awarded to Smeijers, this book addresses sensitive topics for type design, such as copyright, originality and talent. As its subtitle shows, it is meant as a manifesto, followed by a showcase section, which features Smeijers' type designs to date and his commercial work for manufacturers like Philips and Canon.

Smeijers is a brilliant type designer and outspoken educator and this book confirms that. A very stimulating read!