Recommended Resources for Animation

Here are some book about animation that I highly recommend to read and add to your book collection. I own all three and come to the books for help.

The Illusion of Life 
Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston

This book is known in the animation world as the "Animation Bible".  Written by Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, two of Disney's original animators. The book describes a bit of Disney animation and the process behind it.

Every animator should own a copy of this book.

Reasons to pick up this book:

• Contains many illustrations and pictures
• A very big book full of information, over five hundred pages worth
• Lists the twelve Principles of Animation and described in great detail
• A lot of behind the scenes information
• Has many good examples

I was able to get a used copy at Half Price Books for $34.99 in good condition.

The Animator's Survival Kit
Richard Williams

Richard Williams the director of animation for 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit' wrote this book. He talks about many things that an animator should do to improve oneself. The book also has information about the history of animation.

Reasons to pick up this book:

• Hundreds of pictures of frame by frame animations
• Talks about many other animators and their influences to the industry
• Has a video version, which I also recommend
• Shows the basics of animation
• The readings are formated like the author is talking to you

I was lucky enough to buy a new copy of this book for $ 6.99. Out of the three books on this list, I use this one the most. This book really talked to me. I was able to feel his passion of teaching by reading the book.

The Animator's Workbook
Tony White

This book is really a good book to start off with. The way the book was written is easily read and concise.

Reasons to pick up this book:

• Easy read even for children
• Lots of Illustrations
• Small book that can be easily carried anywhere
• Covers special effects, animal movements and backgrounds

I bought a used copy for $9.99. This book was recommended to me by my first animation Teacher. This book gets the second most use from this list. I like bringing this book with me because of it is well rounded in the topic list.

Note:

The information learned from these books can be applied to 3d animation as well.