How to Think Like a Great Graphic Designer

This book peers into the world of who's who in the graphic design profession. To a graphic design student, these luminaries are like the mythological Greek gods and goddesses of whom unyielding worshipers pay endless homage to. But you're in for a surprise, because in addition to them sharing their success stories and process, they become mere mortals as they also share their shortcomings, insecurities and vulnerabilities--causing them to appear that much more real, human, and "approachable". We see what makes them tick and what ignites their passion for design. There seems to be a common thread among many of the interviewed designers in the book--that they constantly re-evaluate and question their own work--just as any budding or seasoned designer does. It's a relatively quick read. You can easily get immersed in the content, as it is very engaging. When reading, each designer's personality leaps off the page. You can get a sense of who the ego-maniacal type-A people are--who seek objective approval or validation of their work--and who the far less self-centered ones are, as they are not interested in "proving" themselves worthy of being called a designer. Some designers appear confident and overzealous, while some seem to be weathered and despondent. Overall, it's a good balance. ( sidebar: Chip Kidd is pure comedy gold!) After reading this book, I would feel more comfortable initiating a conversation with Paula Scher if I randomly bumped into her in an elevator, or subway platform, rather then get all choked up in awe and fumble my words. The book appropriately closes with an emotionally charged interview with Massimo Vignelli, which put quite simply is hilarious! Vignelli is funny without trying to be funny. I found myself laughing out loud as I imagined him in his well intentioned, passive, yet comically dismissive Italian accent as he repeatedly proclaims his disdain for vulgarity in design. His playful, yet calculated madness is palpable. Wonderful! This book won't teach you graphic design, nor does it claim to. It merely offers insight into the world of graphic design's usual suspects, and then some. Highly recommended for students, professors, designers and design enthusiasts alike. Bravo Debbie!

I can't believe only 6 people rated this book. This is such a great book and I had so much fun reading it. I lent it to my program coordinator and it became one of our program's textbooks(graphic design). I totally recommend this to any one interested in design, art or in general, LIFE! worth EVERY SINGLE PENNY!

This book was informative, insightful and a quick read. A must have for both students and designers alike!

Insights into how world-famous graphic designers come up with winning designs make for an outstanding collection of lively interviews revealing best thought and practice in the world of design. Over twenty designers reveal their designs, outlining how a love of design developed, influenced their lives, and how it translated into a passion for producing better graphic design results. Any library covering graphic design simply must have this, whether it be at the college arts level or the general-interest lending library.

It's always refreshing to learn something new about the creative people that you idolize. This is a great book that will not only inspire you but also answer questions about design that are not quite so easy to articulate. You will read every page without any regret.