Creating Universal Design Fonts for All: A New Children's Book by Yumi Takada

A New Dawn for Typography with Universal Design

In a world where inclusivity is more important than ever, typography plays a vital role in conveying messages to all individuals, regardless of their reading abilities. On November 13, 2025, Gakken, a prominent educational publishing company based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, unveiled a remarkable children's book titled 'I am a Font Designer Who Wants to Design Readable Fonts for Everyone' by renowned type designer Yumi Takada. This book aimed to instill the principles of universal design in young readers, making typography a topic of exploration.

The Importance of Font Design

At the heart of this book is the concept of universal design, with a particular focus on accessibility through typography. One of the standout typefaces featured in this narrative is the UD Digital Textbook Font. Designed after extensive consultations with individuals who have low vision, this font addresses the challenges they encounter while reading. Over a rigorous eight-year development period, multiple prototypes were shared with those affected, leading to significant refinements until the final design emerged, one that is widely accepted by both children with learning difficulties and their peers.

As Takada expresses, her vision extends beyond mere aesthetics; it integrates the essence of inclusivity. The UD Digital Textbook Font has become a staple within educational environments, appearing in classroom materials, textbooks, and even local government communications. With the incorporation into Microsoft's Windows OS in 2017, it has reached a broader audience, making it familiar to countless children and their families.

A Glimpse into the Book

The structure of the book is engaging from the outset, featuring colorful pages that not only introduce the concept of typefaces but also encourage children to explore universal design actively. Takada's gentle narrative invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with text and accessibility. She presents design as a conduit for fostering understanding and empathetic discourse among different communities.

The book encompasses several chapters that demystify the role of a font designer, explaining what universal design entails, and elucidating the steps taken to create the UD Digital Textbook Font. This accessible writing aids children in grasping complex ideas about design and its societal impacts—an engaging educational resource for upper-elementary school students and adults alike.

Beyond Typography: Promoting Awareness

High-quality visuals accompany the text, ensuring that even readers unfamiliar with typography can enjoy and learn about the world of letters and design. Takada also shares intriguing anecdotes, including the development of other notable typefaces and how they contribute to societal betterment. These narratives are woven seamlessly throughout the chapters, maintaining reader interest while imparting valuable lessons on compassion and collaboration.

The core message resonates powerfully: everyone, no matter their abilities or backgrounds, should be included in conversations about design. Takada’s hope is that readers will leave the book feeling confident in their unique identities and develop an appreciation for the diversity of others.

About Yumi Takada

Yumi Takada is not only a gifted font designer but also an educator advocating for accessibility in design. As the Universal Design Brand Expert at Morisawa, she dedicates her efforts to emphasizing the significance of thoughtfully designed fonts in educational settings. Recently publishing her first book, she has gained recognition in the typography community, earning accolades such as the Sato Takeyuki Award. Her insights will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of designers interested in making a tangible difference in people's lives through fonts.

In a time when discussions on inclusivity and diversity are paramount, 'I am a Font Designer Who Wants to Design Readable Fonts for Everyone' serves as an essential resource. By encouraging young minds to engage with universal design principles, this unique book fosters a more understanding and supportive society for all.