Making Comics Book Summary - Making Comics Book explained in key points

Making Comics summary

Brief summary

Making Comics by Scott McCloud is a comprehensive guide that delves into the art and process of creating comics. From storytelling and layout to the technical aspects of drawing and inking, this book provides valuable insights for aspiring comic creators.

Give Feedback
Table of Contents

    Making Comics
    Summary of key ideas

    Understanding the Art of Comics

    In Making Comics, Scott McCloud, a renowned comic artist and theorist, takes us on a journey to understand the art of creating comics. He begins by defining comics as juxtaposed pictorial and other images in deliberate sequence, intended to convey information and/or to produce an aesthetic response in the viewer. This definition sets the stage for a deep dive into the intricacies of comic creation.

    McCloud explains that comics are a unique medium, combining the visual and the verbal to create a narrative. He introduces the concept of the 'infinite canvas' - the idea that digital comics can break free from the constraints of physical pages, allowing for new and innovative storytelling techniques.

    Understanding the Tools and Techniques

    Next, McCloud delves into the tools and techniques used in creating comics. He discusses the importance of the gutter - the space between panels - and how it plays a crucial role in the reader's interpretation of time and space. He also explores the use of different panel transitions, such as moment-to-moment, action-to-action, and subject-to-subject, to control the pacing and flow of the story.

    McCloud then moves on to the art of drawing, emphasizing the importance of mastering basic drawing skills and understanding human anatomy. He explains how to convey emotions and movement through character design and poses, and how to use different art styles to evoke specific moods and atmospheres.

    Understanding Storytelling and Structure

    After covering the visual aspects, McCloud shifts his focus to the storytelling and structural elements of comics. He discusses the importance of pacing, rhythm, and layout in guiding the reader through the narrative. He also introduces the concept of the 'closure' - the reader's ability to mentally bridge the gaps between panels to create a continuous story.

    McCloud then explores the different types of transitions and their impact on storytelling. He explains how the choice of transition can affect the reader's perception of time, space, and causality within the narrative. He also discusses the use of text, sound effects, and other non-visual elements to enhance the storytelling experience.

    Understanding the Business of Comics

    In the final section of Making Comics, McCloud addresses the business side of the comic industry. He discusses the various formats and platforms available for publishing comics, from traditional print to webcomics and digital platforms. He also explores the role of the creator in the publishing process, including self-publishing and working with publishers.

    McCloud emphasizes the importance of understanding the market and audience for your comics, as well as the need to balance artistic vision with commercial viability. He also discusses the ethical considerations of creating and sharing comics, such as copyright issues and creator rights.

    Conclusion: A Comprehensive Guide to Comic Creation

    In conclusion, Making Comics serves as a comprehensive guide to the art and craft of creating comics. Scott McCloud's insightful analysis and engaging presentation make this book an invaluable resource for aspiring comic artists and enthusiasts alike. By understanding the unique language of comics and mastering its tools and techniques, one can truly unlock the potential of this dynamic and expressive medium.

    Give Feedback
    How do we create content on this page?
    More knowledge in less time
    Read or listen
    Read or listen
    Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
    Find your next read
    Find your next read
    Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
    Shortcasts
    Shortcasts New
    We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.

    What is Making Comics about?

    Making Comics by Scott McCloud is a comprehensive guide that delves into the art and craft of creating comic books. Through insightful analysis and practical tips, McCloud explores the various elements of storytelling, visual language, and the unique challenges of the medium. Whether you're a seasoned comic artist or a beginner, this book offers valuable knowledge and inspiration to help you bring your own stories to life.

    Making Comics Review

    Making Comics is a book by Scott McCloud that explores the art and craft of creating comics. Here are three reasons why this book is worth reading:

    • It offers in-depth analysis and practical tips on every aspect of making comics, from storytelling to drawing techniques.
    • With its clear, concise explanations and visual examples, the book makes complex concepts accessible to both beginners and experienced comic creators.
    • Featuring insightful interviews with renowned comic artists and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, the book provides a captivating glimpse into the world of comic creation.

    Who should read Making Comics?

    • Aspiring comic creators who want to learn the fundamentals of the craft
    • Artists looking to enhance their visual storytelling skills
    • Anyone curious about the creative process behind making comics

    About the Author

    Scott McCloud is a renowned comic book artist and writer. He is best known for his non-fiction works that explore the art and theory of comics. McCloud's book "Understanding Comics" is considered a seminal work in the field, and it delves into the unique ways in which the medium communicates and engages readers. His other notable books include "Reinventing Comics" and "Making Comics," which continue to be valuable resources for both aspiring and experienced comic creators.

    Categories with Making Comics

    Book summaries like Making Comics

    People ❤️ Blinkist 
    Sven O.

    It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.

    Thi Viet Quynh N.

    Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.

    Jonathan A.

    Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.

    Renee D.

    Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.

    People also liked these summaries

    4.7 Stars
    Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
    36 Million
    Downloads on all platforms
    10+ years
    Experience igniting personal growth
    Powerful ideas from top nonfiction

    Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.

    Get started

    Making Comics FAQs 

    What is the main message of Making Comics?

    Making Comics encourages creativity and provides insightful guidance for aspiring comic creators.

    How long does it take to read Making Comics?

    The reading time for Making Comics varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Making Comics a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Making Comics is worth reading for anyone interested in the art of storytelling through comics. It offers practical advice and inspiration for aspiring artists.

    Who is the author of Making Comics?

    The author of Making Comics is Scott McCloud.

    What to read after Making Comics?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Making Comics, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susann Jeffers
    • Making It All Work by David Allen
    • The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
    • The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
    • Mindset by Carol Dweck
    • Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely
    • Switch by Chip Heath & Dan Heath
    • The Da Vinci Curse by Leonardo Lospennato
    • The Defining Decade by Meg Jay
    • The Art Of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau