Creating animation might sound simple, but it’s an incredibly creative and difficult job. Animators have to think about everything that a sketcher, designer, producer, and actor needs to think about when it comes to posture, body language, and any other number of nuances that go into creating a believable illusion. So, books for animators are an essential tool without a doubt. 

Whether you are a professional animator or aspiring to be one, you’ve probably scoured the internet for a list of the best animation books online. But, the sheer number of books available on the subject can be overwhelming. There is a diverse variety of animation books in different 3D, 2D, stop motion, and much more. That’s why we’ve put together this animation books list for your quick selection.

In this article, you’ll explore 5 amazing books for animators that are worth reading:

Book 1: Blender for Dummies – Jason van Gumster

‘Blender for Dummies‘ is the first book you need to lay your eyes on as a newbie. Just like its name, it is the ultimate learning partner in your animation journey. This book guides the readers to learn 3D modeling and animation from the free and open-source – Blender software. With Jason, you will take the first step towards animation by creating characters, model’s movements, scenes, and animations. 

These types of animation books for beginners will help to turn their simple imagination into 3D animation using a blender. Jason covers all the basic features in this book, such as designing, coloring, texture, and light. If you are ready to master these powerful features, grab your copy now!

Book 2: Acting for Animators – Ed Hooks

The author of ‘Acting for Animators‘ – Hooks is a professional actor for 30 years who teaches acting to animators, animation studios, and major video game companies, including Disney Animation. He uses the classic acting theory to explain the animation character’s movement, facial expression, body language to structure scenes. 

This book covers scene-by-scene animation analysis of popular animated films, such as Up, Kung Fu Panda, Zootopia, and The Little Prince. Insightful ideas will follow the analysis of the animators for creative visuals. To understand the physical actions of your animated characters ‘Acting for Animators’ is a valuable reference book.

Book 3: Character Animation Crash Course – Eric Goldberg

Eric Goldberg is a reputed animator with 20 years of experience in the field that illustrates 2D animations in this book. Eric uses classic cartoons to convey the character’s personalities, features, and motion. With a guided crash course, you get to dive into the witty observations of authors in animation that help you grasp the essence of the animation. 

The best aspect of the crash course is that it offers the readers animated film examples to give real-time examples. It explains the character movement frame-by-frame for quick absorption. This course follows a simple principle of action that adds significant value to newcomers as well as professionals.

Book 4: Cartoon Animation – Preston Blair

‘Cartoon Animation’ is a one-stop book for a newbie or professional animator. In this book, the famous cartoon animator – ‘Preston Blair’ has described the complete journey of animation creation. If you are looking forward to bringing life to your imaginary cartoon character, get ready! Cartoon Animation will help you achieve your goal. 

Blair starts by leading the readers on constructing the cartoon character’s shape, features, colour, and personality. Then comes the elaboration on character movements, character poses, facial expressions, and dialogues. Blair also talks about the technical details such as spacing patterns, cartoon storyboards, background layout, and music. After reading this book, you can certainly create your animated characters with professional details.

Book 5: The Queens of Animation – Nathalia Holt

If you have just started your career in animation and are looking for an inspirational kick in the field of animation, this is your book. The author of this marvelous piece – Nathalia Holt, was the bestselling author for telling this remarkable story of Walt Disney Studios animators. It depicts the struggle of creative animators who created extraordinary artwork and historical narratives that became part of the global canon. 

This book will take you on the journey of animators who used early technologies and preliminary animation tactics to create the Golden age of cartoons. Feel free to dive into this story of inspiring women who created cinematic history and made Disney what it is today! 

The best animation books will give you the right knowledge and tools to learn everything you need to know in one place. An animator is only as good as his expertise. This is why you need to invest in your education. A good ‘3D Animation & Visual Effects’ course will have all the lessons on the basics of animation that will bring you to this creative industry – and we have the best school for you!

DICE- School of Entertainment Arts offers a comprehensive 18 month UG program for aspiring animators. They follow an immersive education model that focuses on providing industry experience, career guidance and a wide range of opportunities to grow in this field. If you are ready to take your first step towards success, contact us now!