I recently grabbed these titles from Hobby Lobby and thought I'd provide a review. I hadn't seen them in my local art store that I frequently visit so of course I snapped them up. It just shows how popular this genre has (fairly recently) become.
LETTERING WITH PURPOSE
by Brittany Luiz
This is a strong title. It has the same things that you usually find, i.e. tool suggestions, digitizing your work, different lettering styles, etc. But this one actually dedicated some time to your layouts which was nice. I'm always curious about how my letters are working together. Strong lettering layouts seem to work perfectly together... Even the overlapping elements.
She really took the time to explain some things I'd been wondering about, see above. BUT, the thing that takes this book over the top and makes it a MUST HAVE in mind are the lettering prompts in the back of the book. I had been so swamped with Calligraphy by CT work that I hadn't taken the time to really letter in a while. However, simply perusing this title and seeing the prompts, I actually took my pens out and did a little doodling... A book that actually made me do something as busy as I remain gets a thumbs up from me!
HAND LETTERING A to Z
A World of Creative Ideas for Drawing and Designing Alphabets
by Abbey Sy
Ahh, where to begin with this title? This one must sit on your shelf as well I must say. This is akin to a lettering bible if you will. Very in depth as far as lettering structure goes. Serif, sans serif and so forth. Additionally there are many different METHODS of lettering. By paint, graphite, monoline ink pens, etc. It will make you want to develop your own alphabet. Killer pics at the end showcasing beautiful, finished layouts by the author and guest lettering artists.
Just makes you want to play! Love books with tons of examples. I'm super happy with this purchase, believe me you won't be disappointed.