I get asked tons and tons of times about what books I use as reference to draw from–and what books I have learned from.

Whether it’s learning to draw the figure, studying anatomy or working in a comic book style format, I use books A LOT. Every day.

Below I have created my list of books that if I were stranded on a desert Island, at least 4 of the books would come with me. These are a small list of my all time favorite figure, anatomy and drawing books. I have every one of them and have used every one of them and can personally recommend them to the most professional artist to enhance their skills or the most untrained artist as great starting points to learn how to draw.

Please e-mail me if you have any questions about these books in general. Their titles are pretty self explanatory though I will break down my top 4 MUST BUY BOOKS in more detail. I hope you enjoy these books like I have.

1) How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way: How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way

THE BIBLE of all comic book how to draw books. It’s still the best and one of my most favorite books. My copy si falling apart, the pages are yellow and I’ve had it since I was 12!

2) An Atlas of Anatomy for Artists:An Atlas of Anatomy for Artists
This is my favorite book on human anatomy. It’s loaded with great muscular and skeletal images for instruction and most importantly, understanding human anatomy.

3) Drawing the Head and Figure by Jack Ham. Great book that is still relevant and loaded with tips on how to draw fast and accurate figures.
Drawing the Head and Figure (Perigee)

4) The Human Figure: A Photographic Reference for Artists is a great book of poses of the male and female figure. I use this all the time!
The Human Figure: A Photographic Reference for Artists