Looking at graphic designers, self-publishing services, Kindle Direct Publishing grifters and aspiring authors today, it seems like book design is an undervalued skill and service. Even the tools to design books and publications have basically become free, and all it takes to produce a decent-looking document is some time and effort. Of course, busy entrepreneurs would still like to spend money just to get the job done, but with the hoard of available freelancers on Upwork and Fiverr, it costs next to nothing to turn a Google doc into a printable book. That work certainly doesn't seem to have a lasting quality, but busy creatives don't care. Is the typographic art commoditised now? Can one sell book design services for a premium these days?

I’ve read The Boron Letters, a collection of letters from accomplished copywriter and direct marketer Gary Halpert to his son in bloom, Bond (who also shares his comments in the book). It’s rather poor. I can understand why young copywriters today speak warmly of this book, as it is as fragmented, deconstructed and scattered as the copy of young writers today. But it has many gems of wisdom. I like how he pays attention to the look of his marketing materials – something that many who follow in his footsteps seem to have forgotten. For example: "One thing that helps is if your promotion has a 'crisp' look about it. In other words, the layout should be clean, there should be a lot of contrast, and it should look easy and inviting to read. Your letterhead should be dignified and non-distracting. Your type face should be a serif face (…)" Words of wisdom.

May all your words be well read and your page compositions pleasing!

Hello type enthusiasts. I started this Skool group as an extension of my Instagram and later my newsletter. None of these outlets have been particularly active, and I'm now in the process of rethinking Typographic North as a whole. As a part of this process, I would love to hear your ideas about what this Skool group could become. Here's a few ideas that have been brewing: • Offer introductory courses in book and publication design • Offer Indesign and Affinity Publisher tutorials • Have recurring informal calls for members. Coffee hours, virtual co-working sessions, hangouts. • Arrange a book club • Create and share templates of various sorts Do you have any wishes or ideas for this group? Let's hear them! Together, we can shape this community's future. – Kris

Hello, and welcome! If you're new here, I invite you to comment below with • your name • your location • your favourite typeface • anything else you'd like to share