Do you take notes when you study your Bible? Do you have one Bible that is designated as your note-taking Bible - as one that you can write on it, highlight it and underline it?  Well, if you do, I think you'll greatly appreciate The HCSB Note-taking Bible from Holman Bible Publishing and B&H Publishing.  Now, I'm not an expert on translations, so most of this review is about what I like in terms of the physicality of this Bible. However, I will say the HCSB version is a simple and easy to understand contemporary English version.  One feature of the HCSB version I do like is when it indents and create an easy to read "section" or "paragraph" of an important verse(s).

First, the outside. The HCSB Note-taking Bible has a bonded leather exterior hardcover, making it sturdy and one to last for a very long time. At 8.5" x 6.5" x 1.5" thick, it's easy to carry around, but personally, I prefer it at home due to the weight (2.5 lbs) and I typically take more notes at home.  What I also appreciate tremendously is the "open spine" feature. It is designed to lay flat and open no matter the page you are on, and without causing the spine to degrade in time like some glued spine books are (including Bibles). It also comes with a brown ribbon book mark to help you hold your last reading page.

The interior of this Bible is just as top quality. The pages are ivory color with black print, and very small dotted line on the edge, serving as note lines. The lines are not strong in contrast due to the "dotted" nature, though I must say the space in between each line is on the small side.  If you have large handwriting, you'll most likely go over the lines.  The fonts are standard font sizes you find in most Bibles. Headings in a san serif font, and verses in serif.  Jesus' words are not in red.  Another aspect I do like about this Bible is the page numbers. It is located on the bottom right corner versus the typical on top next to or on top center of the page where the Bible page location are. I like the separation making it clear. And with that, I have to note the Bible verse/page number is on the small size.

In all, I like The HCSB Note-taking Bible. It is easy to understand, read and take notes with. The great quality physicality of this Bible makes it one great gift or one to use for a long time.

NOTE:  I received a complimentary copy of this Bible from the publisher, B&H Publishing Group for an honest review.  All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.