A comprehensive and practical guide for students and experienced designers alike, this carefully structured text is illustrated throughout with photographs and diagrams. It takes the reader through every aspect of the subject, from the components that make up a book, to understanding how books are commissioned and created, to the intricacies of grid construction and choosing a typeface. The role of the designer is discussed, with advice on how to interpret a design brief, and guidance on type use, images and information graphics. The production process is also explained, with detailed information on reproduction, printing and binding. Featuring examples from various kinds of book, detailed diagrams illustrate everything from the parts of a book through to different types of grid to presenting statistical data, approaches to layout, paper sizes and the printing process. There is also is information on styling the text, an extensive glossary defining editorial, design and production terms, and a further reading list.

Andrew Haslam runs his own studio, creating science, history and geography textbooks for children and is the course leader of the MA Communication Design course at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London.