Looking Good in Print
By Roger C. ParkerReviewed by Tom Zinneman
If you suddenly find yourself faced with designing a newsletter, brochure, flyer, or poster and have little or no experience in doing such things, this may be the book for you. Currently in its fifth edition, this book has become one of the definitive guides for those just starting in the world of desktop publishing.
The book is divided into two major parts. Part I, titled Elements of Design, consists of six chapters. These chapters discuss basic design principles and techniques used in desktop publishing. Common publishing tools, such as page and text organizers, font families and typefaces, white space, illustrations, and the use of photographs are discussed.
The second Part, Putting Your Knowledge to Work, applies the basic principles and techniques of graphic design to specific projects. There are specific chapters devoted to the design of newsletters, advertisements, sales materials (brochures and catalogs), letterheads, business cards, and response forms and surveys.
I found the last three chapters of the book to be most interesting. Two of these chapters discuss design pitfalls and redesign. Numerous examples are provided showing poor design and an improved design. The final chapter deals with designing documents for web distribution. Potential problem areas and many design suggestions are provided. File options (text, HTML, and Adobe’s PDF file format) are discussed in detail. An Appendix is also included that provides information on printing in color, choosing the right paper, and selecting a service bureau.
What this book doesn’t cover is the actual use of a specific word processing or desktop publishing program. It is assumed that you will learn how to use your software tools elsewhere and use this book as a guide for designing your document. However, this book does accomplish its basic goal of providing a firm foundation of basic design principles and techniques used in the world of desktop publishing. This book will be a valuable tool for someone just starting in this area.
Copyright 2003
Paraglyph Press, Inc.
4015 N. 78th Street, #115
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
602-749-8787
www.paraglyphpress.com
Retail - $29.99; 314 pages