“Short review:
Paper bleeds with texters and highlighters, and smells really bad. Not worth it at all for the price. Definitely wouldn't recommend this for gifting!
Full review:
Really like the construction, size, and thickness of the book. The paper does bleed with most texters and highlighters though (definitely not fit for anything artsy - paints, etc.), however, I'm not that fussed as I am using it primarily as a planner/bullet journal for university, rather than for creative/art purposes.
The paper has an extremely strong chemical scent upon opening, similar to (if it is not) ammonia. I bought the book about two weeks ago and the scent is still so strong, though it has faded *slightly*. Hoping that with time it will fade completely, but who knows. Honestly would not have purchased it had I known it would have such a strong chemical smell.
For this reason, unfortunately, I would not recommend purchasing. Until Moleskine change their formula or remove such chemicals from the production of their paper, spending $50+ on a notebook that smells so toxic and doesn't have paper that can withstand even the use of texter/highlighter ink (especially considering they market it as an art book) is honestly just not worth it. At this price point, and with Moleskine's reputation, you'd expect a premium notebook, which this certainly doesn't feel like. If you're considering buying this as a gift for someone, I'd definitely look at other brands.”
