This review is coming from the perspective of someone who isn't an animator, let alone an artist. Animation is something that I have a lot of passion and appreciation for as a spectator, and I came at Williams' guide with the expectation that it could provide a stepping stone for me to learn about the technical side of things. 

I did not expect this book to be as valuable to me as it has been. Not only does Williams have an uncanny ability for explanation, but his enthusiasm and gentle humor makes his work all the more engrossing. It's one of the few textbooks I've read that makes me want to read it again and again.

"The Animator's Survival Kit" is written in a casual layman's style and introduces concepts and techniques at an easy to grasp pace. It's the perfect introduction for someone who has only a rudimentary knowledge on how the craft works. It's an incredible achievement, and should be required reading for anyone who loves animation and wants to learn more about it.