Customer Reviews

Type Rules!: The Designer's Guide to Professional Typography

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When I saw that Ms. Strizver had updated Type Rules I knew I was going to have to fork over the money and shift some books on my shelf to fit a great new title into the mix. I wasn't dissapointed!

Ilene makes each example easy to understand and includes lots of great illustrations and explanations in her work. AND you can read her entire book without a black felt tip pen needed. I do suggest a yellow highlighter though as there's lots you'll want to remember!

The first edition was an incredibly valuable resource, and I referred to it often in my work. I could easily find answers to all kinds questions about type and design. This new edition is even better. It's still as thoughtfully and clearly written as the first edition, and is still filled with great designs to illustrate a point. But it's been completely updated so it's current with the latest versions of software. And it has some new features like "Type Tips," which I'm finding especially enlightening, and exercises at the end of each chapter, which must make this an excellent text for teachers. This is a "must-have" for graphic designers.

A thorough, straightforward and clearly understandable guide to the effective use of typography. Bravo. Strizver certainly knows the ins and outs of typography from the essential basics to some very sophisticated fine points but, more importantly, is able to communicate this knowledge in a concise manner that will be useful to a beginner but, might even impart some new tips to the experienced aficionado.

Type Rules! - geared specifically for teaching at the college level - is one of the best basic typography books I've seen. Ilene Strizver has done a terrific job of breaking down the components of typography into digestable chapters, each complemented by clear, intelligent exercises. The book is replete with illustrations that serve as solid examples of each concept she articulates; and includes guidance for utilizing current design software. I'd recommend this book hands down to any teacher or student of design - as well as to any practicing typographer seeking to hone their skills.

This thoughtfully designed and written book works (rules!) on all levels. For someone entirely new to typography the book is approachable while providing a considerable education. For industry professionals who "know everything there is to know" about typography, the book is an excellent creative reference to remind one of a rule or technique long-forgotten or to alarm one with the realization they do not know everything about typography. The visual examples utilized in the book were well-considered and drive home the messages. The Quark tips alone make this book worth purchasing. As a companion to any library of typography or design books, Type Rules! is the designer's "Elements of Style" -- a reference book no one can afford to be without and one that never goes out of style.

The author teaches at SVA, where I'm a student. I had hoped the exercises in this book would improve my skills, but it's really for beginners, giving an overview of the basic principles. And the exercises aren't of much benefit without anyone to critique the results. There are better books out there for a general overview (re: typology).