A Grammar of Typography- Available June 2026

The definitive guide to classical book design in the digital era.

In an age where digital tools dominate, A Grammar of Typography bridges the gap between time-honored typographic traditions and contemporary design practices. Renowned designer Mark Argetsinger offers an exhaustive exploration of book design, covering everything from typeface selection and page layout to paper choice and binding specifications.

This comprehensive volume is enriched with over 345 illustrations and diagrams, many in full color, providing both historical context and practical guidance. Argetsinger delves into the evolution and continuity of typography—referencing seminal printers’ grammars from Joseph Moxon to Theodore Low De Vinne—and and offers insights into digital typesetting in view of these traditions of classical design.

Whether you're a seasoned designer, a student, or a typographic enthusiast, this book serves as both a reference and an inspiration, emphasizing the enduring relevance of classical design principles in today’s digital landscape. All readers will gain a deeper appreciation for text, and all its rules of form, that can make words on a page a joy to the eye.

Praise for A Grammar of Typography

“Argetsinger has created what will be considered the definitive work on the subject of the history and application of book design.” —Fine Books & Collections

“A born classic….How can you not love a book with an introduction titled ‘The Hidden Soul of Harmony: The Classical Tradition. A Practice in Search of a Theory‘? Although Argetsinger claims ‘this is primarily a practical manual, not a scholarly treatise,‘ one would be hard-pressed to find a more philosophical look at ‘marks of quotation,’ ‘font editing,’ or ‘horizontal space.’….Open it anywhere and start reading.” —Julie Mellby, Princeton University Library

“Argetsinger is a top-notch expert on the subject of typography, well suited to tackle the enormous task of an overall review of the art, from its beginnings through to today’s digital permutations....To anyone who works with type, I recommend you acquire this book. Students studying the art of typography can find no better source for all the information needed to learn the craft. For professional designers, I consider A Grammar of Typography mandatory.” —Jerry Kelly, Printing History, the journal of the American Printing History Association