Publication Series Design

I believe that Oxford’s Very Short Introduction Series is extremely consistent on many levels. Each cover has the same abstract painting feel to it, where the colours can denote the spirit or feeling of the overall book. Additionally, the typography across the front covers, back covers, and spines are consistent, placed in the same positions, and using the same typefaces and weights across the series, as well as colour. Overall, the cover designs are highly legible and communicate to the audience clearly which book of the series they are reading. Whilst there are many strengths to the series, I felt the designs may feel a bit outdated for a contemporary audience.

In saying this, I have embraced the simplicity of the existing design in my brand refresh. Thus, by intertwining the use of clear grid systems, large, bold type, and realistic imagery, I have attempted to give the series a more current and contemporary feel.

The front covers consist of a single image relating to the title with large type, including the title, author, and the phrase, ‘A Very Short Introduction’. The back cover consists of a blurb for each title, barcode, and the Oxford Press logo. Additionally, the spine contains the author, title, and logo. There is also the addition of a number, representing the title in the series. Along with this, and the fact that each category has its own colour represented on the spine, it may entice buyers to purchase the series so that they can have every colour and number to fill in the gaps on their bookshelf.