Art Direction + Editorial Design by Yolanda Zappaterra
Yolanda Zappaterra has created the perfect book for designers who are interested in print publications. Art Direction + Editorial Design covers the basics of newspaper design and moves into magazines. Zappaterra includes relevant interviews and case studies at large publications. There are two versions of Zappaterra’s book. This is the U.S. version and the U.K.’s is called simply “Editorial Design.”
This text is ideal for students trying to get into the industry or are preparing for an internship at a magazine or newspaper.
Art Direction + Editorial Design is available in paperback at Barnes & Noble.
Graphic Design Theory edited by Helen Armstrong
Sometimes it’s nice to know why designers do what they do. Graphic Design Theory is an introduction to the design field. It is Helen Armstrong split up this body of essays into three sections: creating the field, building on success, and mapping the future. Armstrong has introduced new designers to graphic design’s roots. This part history, part theory approach is an interesting and informative read.
Graphic Design Theory: Readings from the field is available in paperback at Barnes & Noble.
Designer’s Desktop Manual by Jason Simmons
Another great book to have on hand is Jason Simmons’ Designer’s Desktop Manual. Simmons focused on core areas of graphic design and the software programs used in the process.
These core areas include:
- Operating systems and applications
- Type
- Color
- Images
- Production
Many of the examples are accompanied by screenshots of the application. The only downside to this manual is that the information has the potential to be outdated quickly. The book was published by F+W Publications, the same folks that bring us HOW Magazine.
The Designer’s Desktop Manual is available in paperback at Barnes & Noble.
Exploring the Elements of Design by Poppy Evans
Exploring the Elements of Design is a textbook. Yes, a textbook, but it is a great textbook. Poppy Evans and Mark A. Thomas have combined their design experience after decades of teaching. Evans is a familiar name in the arts section of most booksellers. Her recent works include Exploring Publication Design and Forms, Fonts, and Folds.
Within it’s almost 300 pages, you’ll find practical applications, designer interviews, ways to build your portfolio, and some great career advice from professionals in the field.
Exploring the Elements of Design is available in paperback at Barnes & Noble.
Grid Systems by Kimberly Elam
Kimberly Elam presents the most comprehensive look at how to understand and use grid systems in graphic design. Grid Systems: Principles of Organizing Type is filled with illustrations and transparent overlays that let the reader interact with the grid.
Elam also introduces new ways of creating page grids that can inspire even the seasoned graphic design. Grid Systems explains the basics, while giving the details.
This book is available in paperback at Barnes & Noble.
