I absolutely love this book. It is a nice large size and ties together with a very nice rope. This allows you to customize it even after you finish the pages. The paper is thicker than what comes in most books like this. It is perfect because this also allows me to be more creative with what ink I use on it and how much I decorate it. The thicker paper will hold up much better to heavier additions than standard paper that typically comes in books like this. Everything comes together and is ready to be assembled. Assembly is super easy and you don't have to worry about not being able to do it. My 9 year old is actually one that put it together because I was busy working on other stuff and he was in a helpful mood.