week 3 - session task

Book 1

Book 2

• Does the style of type complement the illustrations? Explain your answer. 

book 1 fits its typography with it's illustrative style really well. They have used a serif typeface that suggests traditional qualities and for a story i think this fits in well. Although i do feel a san serif typeface would be more appropriate as its easier to read for a younger audience.


Book two is clearly aimed towards an older audience, its has sold, loud illustrations that will appeal to this age group. The typography fits this really well also. They use a variation of serif and san serif typefaces which, along with the images and colour scheme, suggests an element of attitude which draws this audience in. They irregularity between typestyles helps this also, i like the way they have swapped typefaces and styles to highlight key aspects.

• Does the design of the type use any visual ‘tools’(colour/ bold text, movement etc) to enhance the information/story. Is this successful? 

Book 1 uses a method with in its chapter title to highlight what the chapter is about. They have overlapped type with a lower opacity in the background. I really don't think this works as you have to look hard to work out what it says, something that isn't appropriate for children learning to read.

Book 2 uses bold text and a variety of typefaces and styles to emphasise key aspects. In this case i think its worked well as its relevant to the informational elements that the book carries. It also makes it a more interesting read for it's targeted audience.

• Select one spread from both books that you think works well and one that doesn’t. Explain your choice.


I don't think book 1 works as well as it potentially could do. I don't like how they have used a serif typeface, its harder to read which i don't think is appropriate for children learning to read. I  also don't think the chapter title, with the over lapping of words works well for the same reasons. If the corrects use of typeface an the layout of the title were slightly different, the spread would work a better.


Book 2 is a great example of a good spread, it keeps it's audience captivated with it's irregularity, its busy, loud and interesting to look at. It shows attitude and holds a certain 'cool' aspect which fits in perfectly with its target audience.