Go A Kidd's Guide to Graphic Design

Kidd, C. (2013). Go: A Kidd's Guide to Graphic Design. New York, NY: Workman Publishing.

Summary

 This is a nonfiction expository book that the main concepts of graphic design: form, typography or font, content, and concept. All of these put together should get a readers or viewers attention and send messages from your eyes to your brain to pay attention to the message. From includes the size, placement,white space, coloring, and appeal.  There should be thought into each of these pieces to make the project not only pleasing but functional. Typography includes font type, font size, letter position, and font color.  The audience and purpose must be considered. If it something that must be read easily, a fancy calligraphy font may not be best. Viewers need to be able to decipher letters and read quickily and move on.  The amount of text can also help determine what typography to use.  Some types are better for headings and titles. and others are more suited for the body of the text. Content dictates your design. The content will determine the purpose of the project.  Once that is known, a desginer will be better able to layout the design on paper. The purpose also helps determine the colors to use. Serious content needs subdued colors. Content that is brief and meant to stand out can be produced in bright colors. Finally the concept must be decided. Is it a magazine spread full of photographs or a report to present to professionals. Will it be paper and handed out or will it be shown on a projector? Book covers will look different based on the type of book, author's purpose, and intended audience.  All in all you want a design that is going to attract an audience

Commentary

The book was written to show different designs and since informing readers on how to produce material is the purpose showing different options is unique.  It did make it hard to read for a long period of time because my brain didn't receive it as text more like a series of posters.  But the authors intention was appreciated.

Conncections