Baskerville: The Biography of a Typeface - Hardcover

by Simon Garfield (Author)

When Baskerville was first created in 1757, there was concern that it would damage readers' eyes with its combination of thin and thick strokes and tapering serifs. Yet 250 years later, it remains one of the most commonly used typefaces in books of all kinds. As best-selling author Simon Garfield tells it, the tale of this elegant typeface is one of painstaking dedication. The font's creator, John Baskerville, was a maverick lacquer maker and master printer who made it his life's mission to achieve the font's perfection. His efforts culminated in his magnificent Bible, acclaimed as the finest ever made. Garfield explores why Baskerville's own body was dug up and buried many times before finally being allowed to rest in peace, and examines his legacy through the work of his wife, Sarah Baskerville--one of the first powerful women in the printing world--and the archivists and enthusiasts working to preserve the font's original steel punches today.

Back Jacket

Praise for Just My Type

"Funny and fascinating, irreverent and playful yet endlessly illuminating, the book is an absolute treat for the type-nerd, design history geek, and general lover of intelligent writing with humor."
-- Maria Popova, The Atlantic

"Whether you're a graphic designer or a layperson with no background in this area, reading what Garfield has to say will change the way you perceive the written word forever."
-- Wes Bausmith, Los Angeles Times

"Deliriously clever and entertaining."
-- Kate Tuttle, Boston Globe