Help on producing a book

Commenting on his recently published book Book Design and Production, author Pete Masterson says that when he realized the typography books were more directed at designers or graphic artists (or typesetters) rather than at a non-designer he set out on a quest to create a comprehensive book for beginning publishers or small publishers to help them understand the issues surrounding book design and production.

And Pete achieved his aim. I'm sure that he and I could enjoy ourselves discussing some aspects of points he makes, but I'd have no argument with any newcomer to book publishing who based decisions on "Book Design and Production: a guide for Authors and Publishers".

It should not be seen as just a book for those who want to do their own layout as it explains what should be happening in the process when you get the work done by others.

I have one substantial criticism. For a 316-page oversize paperback which should be a source of constant reference for the buyer, the retail price of $29.95 is far too cheap! Just one item of usable information would save the reader more than that, and this book contains hundreds of such items. I've been in the publishing industry for 40 years and it will be staying on my desktop bookshelf as an instant reference. Run to http://www.aeonix.com/ now!