The Graphic Design Reader is a co-edited book of original and commissioned essays from 1920 to present that provide a critical platform for understanding and interpreting graphic design practice. The book brings together writings from key international design and cultural critics, including Dick Hebdige, Steven Heller, Victor Margolin, Rick Poynor and Adrian Shaughnessy; seminal writings from history such as those by W.A. Dwiggins, William Morris, and Beatrice Warde; and, newly commissioned works including those from Mohor Ray, Joanna Choukeir, Michele Champagne, and Arne Scheuermann - representing the rich and varied voices of graphic design writing.

The co-editors take as their starting point, an exploration of the ways in which theory and practice, canons and anti-canons have operated within the discipline. Extracts are structured into thematic sections addressing graphic design history; education and the profession; type and typography; critical writing and practice; political and social change; the visual landscapes of graphic design, and graphic design futures. Introductory essays are found for each chapter as well as a bibliography of selected key readings. The co-editors have contributed a substantial introduction which positions the essays within the field as well as an Epilogue speculating on'The Future of Graphic Design Practice'.