Book fonts: serif vs sans serif (and sizes that work)
One of the most common questions we are asked is what font should be used in a book: “sans serif” or “serif”.
There are two primary styles of type: “sans serif” and “serif”. “Serifs” are the tiny tails on the text. Most books use an 11–12 pt serif font for the body copy and a bold sans serif for chapter titles and headers. Depending on the age of your target audience, larger type may be more suitable.
Whilst there is no set standard, there are some fonts which have stood the test of time. In the following sections we include samples of a number of fonts which are widely used and are popular with professional book designers.
Classic serif choices
Garamond
Bembo
Caslon
Janson
When to use sans serif
Sans serif faces are excellent for headings, chapter openers, pull quotes, and UI elements. They can also work for body text in highly illustrated or instructional books. Keep contrast and size generous to maintain readability.
Typesetting tips (size, leading, measure)
- Body size: 11–12 pt for most trade books; consider 12–13 pt for younger readers or accessibility.
- Line spacing (leading): ~130–150% of body size (e.g., 11 pt type with 14–16 pt leading) keeps paragraphs open.
- Measure (line length): Aim for ~55–75 characters per line for comfortable reading.
- Hyphenation & justification: Enable hyphenation cautiously to avoid rivers; use optical margin alignment if available.
- Figures & quotes: If your font offers them, use old-style figures and proper typographic quotes for a bookish feel.
- Contrast: Ensure sufficient contrast between text and paper tone; avoid printing mid-grey text on uncoated stocks.
Font licensing
Make sure you have the appropriate license for any commercial fonts used in your book. If you prefer free options, choose high-quality, open-licensed families from reputable sources and test print a few pages before finalising.
