The Blue Day Notebook

Rating:
Summary: The perfect little sketchbook
Review: As a graphic design major, I'm required to keep sketchbooks for both my design and fine arts courses, but I find the traditional black cover and huge blank pages intimidating when I want to explore some of my own thoughts, not just assigned projects. They also leave me feeling exposed - some part of my brain refuses to believe that I won't have to turn them in for a grade and therefore reveal all of my personal writings and ideas to someone who hardly knows the real me.

That's why I was so excited when I found this little notebook. I wasn't even looking for one, but when I saw the colorful cover and the whimsical illustration and type, I was drawn to it. When I looked inside, I was further delighted by the variety of blank pages - some are college-ruled and some are blank, while there are others with a rectangular grid. Some have a 7-inch ruler at the side, and they all have random little illustrations at the bottom of the page. There's also a little flip-book action going on with the frog illustration at the right side of the pages - it's really cute. Along with the visual intrigue is some textual intrigue, as well; at the top of each page are three words, such as "knitting bird hospital" or "ant searching blue". These are just another entertaining detail, and I'm sure they could produce some interesting word association exercises.

Because of the way the journal is bound, there are some creasing issues when you stretch open the book, but I find that it's actually nice to have a sketchbook that isn't so perfect and imposing all of the time - the wear and tear just increases its charm. There are also two elastic loops on the side to hold a pencil or pen so that you're never left scrambling for a writing utensil when that next great idea hits. I prefer using a mechanical pencil because it can hook over one of the loops and stay there. The elastic band that keeps the book closed gives me a great sense of security and privacy, which are so important to the creative process.

Overall, I'm delighted with this little notebook and I'm so glad I found it in the clearance section at the local bookstore. If you're an artist or a writer, or perhaps just someone who likes to doodle, this is a wonderful notebook for you. Love it!

Rating:
Summary: Inspiring to say the least!
Review: This notebook is great. I initially picked it up as journal potential. Turns out the layout and designs on each page inspired my creativity. I now use it for poetry, drawings, and any other silly nonsense I feel like jotting down. Small enough to carry around with you and even has a pencil holder so you're never without a place to jot down your ideas. Great for any age.