The 7 Essentials of Graphic Design

Rating:
Summary: Interesting, but flawed
Review: A so-so introduction to design principles, marred by a misleading typography chapter. Simply put, Ms. Goodman's use of terminology is often wrong: for example, she uses the term Modern as a label for all sans-serifs, then classifies Bodoni as a Transitional; she calls Optima and Gill Sans Grotesques â€" they're not â€", and, most galling, she manages to get the definitions of "font" and "typeface" exactly backwards. Mere details? Perhaps, but one can easily make the argument that typography is about details. As far as the rest of the book is concerned, though it has some nice examples, the layout makes it difficult to use as a reference, and the text fails to provide much of a historical context. It is also almost exclusively American.

Rating:
Summary: The Seven Essentials IS essential
Review: As a first-year design student, I found Goodman's book inspiring. A great reference tool that helps bring clarity and focus to the subject of design. Written in a friendly, insightful manner, the book includes excellent examples of all forms of graphic design from famous to not-so-famous designers. I've used it as a supplement to my required reading.

Rating:
Summary: Fair Book, But the Design!!
Review: This book offers a rather general overview of graphic design, and does that job pretty well. The seven essentials referred to in the title are: research, typography, contrast, layout, the grid system, identity design and critique/analysis. The author does a good job giving the basics of each of these elements.

The problem with books on design is that the authors and publishers feel compelled to "design" the book. This book suffers from that affliction. The examples in the book are relevant and appreciated and the graphics in the introductory pages and in between chapters, while unnecessarily artsy, are not objectionable.

The biggest fault in this book? The typography - several times over! The layout of the text is distracting and occasionally hard to follow, but the choice of typeface and size is totally beyond comprehension. Unless this book was designed only for those under the age of thirty who have perfect (or better) vision, the designer missed her/his mark. It is very tiring and difficult to read and, being over fifty, I found my eyes begging for relief.

So - content is OK, though in a minimalist sense. Overall design of the book is what would be expected of a design book. But do not buy this book if you have any trouble reading small type, or at the least, buy a magnifying glass at the same time. You'll need it.

Rating:
Summary: take a step back.
Review: This books sets up the basics for every design problem. Keep these in mind and you'll have successful results every time. Perfect for students of design or those just starting out. Learn what all successful designers know.

Rating:
Summary: The Perfect Primer
Review: This is an excellent primer for non-professionals and students, as well as a helpful reference for teachers. Goodman has chosen contemporary, accessible examples (not just the esoteric, self-congratulatory ones found in design annuals) to illustrate the basic tenets of designing for communication. Finally, there's an informed, well-designed alternative to Robin Williams' books. Before you dive into that next brochure or flier, get this book!