Super Journal!Cover is just as pretty as it looks in the photo. The notebook lays flat and gives you lots of room to write. The paper is smooth and ruled. There is a ribbon bookmark, but NO pocket in the front or back.If you like to use markers, paint, watercolors, or heavy inks like with fountain pens, etc. I can't say how the paper would hold up to that. It works very well with my normal ballpoint pen, however.This is a larger format, so be aware of that. After years of using standard, A5 journals (approx. 5" x 8"), I find this one is a refreshingly larger size (about 8" x 10"). When the spread is open, it feels even larger and opens possibilities for writing sketching, adding stickers, washi tape, etc. I have not yet "bulked" mine up with decorative stickers, etc., though, so I can't say yet how the journal will hold up to that. It does have a sewn (rather than glued) binding, which is my preference.A few of the flowers on the cover are a bit textured. The back cover is the same design without the word "Notes," and is completely smooth with no texturing.I just started using this journal a couple of weeks ago as a "Themed Journal" after eyeing it for some time in my "Saved for Later" cart. I hope you enjoy it as much as I am if you choose this one!Very pretty!