What the Font?! – A Manga Guide to Western Typeface by Kuniichi Ashiya

Published: 17 November 2020

Genres: Graphic Novel, Seinen*, Slice of Life**, Nonfiction

* Seinen is a genre with a target audience of young adult males

** Slice of Life is a genre that shows a part of a character’s life

Available as: Paperback, E-book

Summary:

What the Font provides an introduction to different fonts and typefaces through anthropomorphic characters that aid Marusu in her change of role from sales representative to designer. From page 204, here are the typefaces discussed:

Review

“Typefaces often reflect the fashions and culture of their times.”

I would recommend this book to young adults and adults interested in design. One aspect that drew me in is how the text is organized. The biographical introductions to the typefaces are interspersed with the introductions to the anthropomorphic characters, which can make a reader less overwhelmed when learning all of the aspects of fonts and typefaces. Before reading this text, I had never thought deeply about how using a certain font appeals to a reader’s needs. After reading, I am encouraged to think intentionally about the message a font provides and accessibility to readers.

Overall Rating: 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌖 4.75 – Would read again

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