Books are a great source of learning. It’s a fact that when we read something and understand it in an easy way, we memorize it for a longer time. As everything is turning digital, books on AI for kids are still important and contain so much knowledge. Now, people can read them in either digital or hard copy format.
Starting off, if your child is creative and interested in graphic design and is keen on learning from the very basics, then it is quite important to look for just the right starting point. Similarly, in graphic design, the fundamentals form an important part of learning and books are an excellent way to get started. If your child wants to become a great graphic designer or simply aspires to this as a hobby, then the right resources can make the learning journey enjoyable and rewarding.
In this blog, we will explore some of the best graphic design books for kids and beginners. Moreover, filled with practical tips, inspiring visuals, and expert guidance, these books will help to unleash creativity and provide a solid foundation to start confidently in the world of design. Let’s get started!
1. “Graphic Design: The New Basics” by Ellen Lupton and Jennifer Cole Phillips
Why This Book?
Graphic Design: The New Basics by Ellen Lupton and Jennifer Cole Phillips is a perfect read for beginners. It introduces the reader to fundamental elements of graphic design such as form, color, texture, and motion. Moreover, the authors try to explain abstract concepts using visual examples, hence making it easier for the reader to understand the fundamentals.
Key Features:
- Clear explanation of core design principles.
- It is rich in visual content for better understanding.
- It has exercises to apply all the concepts learned.
It’s ideal for beginners who would want a structured and comprehensive start in graphic design.
2. “Thinking with Type” by Ellen Lupton
Why This Book?
In graphic design, it is impossible to imagine typography. The book presented in this review is often called the holy bible of typology. Ellen Lupton discusses the anatomy of typefaces and typographic grids and presents practical applications of the said subject.
Key Features:
- Practical advice on combinations of types and compositions
- Clear visuals and accompanying examples
- History of typography.
If you want to design logos, websites, or posters, mastering typography with this book will elevate your designs.
3. “Steal Like an Artist” by Austin Kleon
Why This Book?
Creativity is very scary for new designers, but Austin Kleon puts the reader’s mind at ease by saying that originality is overrated. He teaches readers how to learn from observation and steal ideas from other designers.
Key Features:
- Focus on creativity and inspiration.
- Easy to read with short chapters.
- Practical advice to break creative blocks.
This book is more about mindset than it is about technical skills and is, therefore, excellent reading for motivation among aspiring designers.
4. “The Elements of Graphic Design” by Alex W. White
Why This Book?
For anyone seeking to further develop their knowledge of graphic design principles, this book delves into visual communication in a comprehensive manner. It explains alignment, spacing, contrast, and more, which are the building blocks of effective design.
Key Features:
- Clarity and simplicity in design.
- Tips for practical layout and composition.
- Insight into professional design practices.
This book is perfect for a beginner who wishes to learn how to create clean, professional-looking designs. \
5. “How to Be a Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul” by Adrian Shaughnessy
Why Read This Book?
This book offers a graphic design industry in-and-out story. It is less focused on technical skills but more so about how one manages one’s designer career. Moreover, it also gives tips for freelancing, handling clients, and developing a portfolio.
What to Look for:
- Insight into how one should conduct himself in the design industry.
- Real-world advice for dealing with clients.
- Practical tips on career development.
For beginner graphic designers, this book provides a ‘real-world’ view on the actions necessary to be successful in the profession.
6. “Creative Workshop: 80 Challenges to Sharpen Your Design Skills” by David Sherwin
Why This Book?
In graphic design, practice makes perfect and this book features 80 design challenges that push your creativity to great extremes.
Every project here is crafted to target very specific skills: from typography and branding.
- Practical Exercise including some graphic design activities for kids to Improve Your Skills
- This covers lots of the different areas in graphic design.
- You encourage creativity and experimentation.
This is an excellent pick for beginners looking to apply their knowledge practically.
7. “Logo Design Love” by David Airey
Why This Book?
For beginners interested in branding and logo design, this book gives an insight into the process of creating memorable logos. David Airey walks readers through the brainstorming, sketching, and refining a logo design process.
Key Features:
- Real-world examples of successful logos.
- Tips on working with clients for branding projects.
- Practical advice on how to build a design portfolio.
It’s great for specializations such as logo design or branding.
8. “Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die” by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
Why This Book?
Graphic design is all about communication. This book talks about why certain messages would stick in people’s minds, and how designs can become memorable.
Key Features:
- Insights on creating a memorable visual
- Cases of successful campaigns.
- Focus on storytelling in design.
The book is ideal for anyone who has a desire to create meaningful designs.
9. “Show Your Work!” by Austin Kleon
Why This Book?
For most beginner creators, sharing your work is a nightmare. This book gives actionable guidance on how to share your creative process and get people to watch your work.
Main Highlights:
- Stronger focus on networking and self-promotion.
- Tends to encourage more openness in creative projects.
- Relatively easy to follow through and build confidence.
This book goes well with “Steal Like an Artist,” giving you both creative inspiration and practical advice on how to share your work.
10. “Designing Brand Identity” by Alina Wheeler
Why This Book?
Brand identity is important in graphic design. There is a step-by-step guide on building a brand, from research to implementing the process through Alina Wheeler.
Key Features:
- Completely covers branding basics.
- Real-life case studies involving strong brands.
- Highly specific description of the branding process.
It is, therefore, a must-read for beginners seeking to specialize in branding and identity design.
Why Reading Books is a Must for Beginners?
Books are the best resource since they:
- Provide information in-depth compared to the articles and educational YouTube channels for kids found online.
- Give a clear learning path for a novice.
- Help you understand the technical and creative aspects of graphic design.
How to Get the Most Out of These Books?
- Start with the Basics: Begin with books that cover fundamental principles like “Graphic Design: The New Basics.”
- Practice Regularly: Apply what you learn to personal projects.
- Explore Other Subjects: Learn about typography, branding, and creativity in order to make yourself as well-rounded as possible.
- Build a Library: Build a personal library of books on design for reference and inspiration.
Final Words
Graphic design for kids is a rewarding field. Yet, getting started could feel overwhelming. These books were selected to take you step-by-step through the essentials and inspire your creativity as well. From typography all the way to branding, each will help you to start your journey.
Invest in learning, practice regularly, and you will be creating amazing designs that will make people raise their eyebrows. Which of these do you pick first? Share!