I had read the other reviews on this product, and decided to take a chance on the higher price than other 'sketch' books. I needed something sturdy with thick pages. I am pleased to say that I got that and more. The quality of the paper is wonderfully smooth. The hardbound nature of the book makes you feel more secure when trying to work on your art in a not so structured environment. I am most certainly only going with Moleskine from now on for my artistic book needs. I hear they make a good watercolor book as well.