Book design is one of the earliest examples of what we now call 'graphic design'. The Church was its first patron. In the West, the original book designers were 9th-century monks copying scriptures onto parchment, and the first attempts at printing were designed to emulate these beautifully hand-produced pieces. The designer Jan Tschichold spent many years examining these beautiful medieval and Renaissance manuscripts and books in an effort to discover their underlying design principles....

New Book Design brings together the most interesting, influential and accomplished book designs of the last ten years. It features more than ioo titles chosen for their outstanding design qualities, from the publications of large print-run publishers to those of small independent companies,and even artists' books. As well as painstakingly produced books that use unconventional formats and unusual print techniques and materials, it looks at less flamboyant publications designed for different markets. A wide variety of books are featured, from paperback novels to architectural monographs, text-based as well as highly illustrated books.

Divided into four main sections - Packaging, Navigation, Structure and Specification - the book examines each facet of book design:cover design, contents and structure, grids,typography, paper, pi'inting and binding. Each section includes an interview with a prominent figure in the book industry, from designers and publishers to key booksellers. All featured books are richly illustrated with clear photography and extended caption text.

Seeking out surprising and less-knownexamples from a wide range of countries, New Book Design will provide both design students and established practitioners with a wealth of inspiration.

Introduction

Packaging

Navigation

Structure

Specification

Glossary

Index