If you're seeking to have notes of a theologian's systematic, theological perspective on any given passage, consider purchasing the John MacArthur ESV Study Bible--it contains notes of his specific opinion of any given passage and a very, very brief look at said passage's context.If you're seeking to acquire an objective, contextual gaze into any given passage, rather than a theologian's personal opinion, consider purchasing this Bible.Here's a "proverbial Bible passage note" as an example of what I'm talking about when referencing the notes used in this specific Bible vs. the notes used in the John MacArthur ESV Study Bible:(i.e. [This Bible]: "Grind stones were tools used for cooking, primarily from 89BC to 134AD in southern Greco-Roman communities. Grind stones were cooking tools used to grind grains of wheat into flower. They were primarily used in small, rural communities that existed approximately 10 kilometers south of Jerusalem at the time of Christ..."VS.[John MacArthur ESV Study Bible]: "Grind stones were tools used for cooking in rural communities outside of Jerusalem. The grind stone referenced in this passage could ultimately be a metaphoric portrayal of God's divine election amidst the propitiation of the cross."I personally enjoy objective, historical notes over a theologian's opinion, but that's just me. To each his own!Yes, the print is small, but unless your vision is terrible, then you'll be just fine. Even then, eye wear or contacts could be (and, arguably, should be) considered as a viable aid to your vision handicap.Cover is quite enjoyable. A very soft imitation leather. Allows a solid grip with great flexibility and comfort.The page edges are gold, which is semi-obnoxious if you're reading the Bible in a public common area for some reason. I don't like to draw attention to myself when I do devotions in a public common area outside of church or my home. Whatever. Gold page edges or not, this is still a fantastic purchase. I wouldn't let the gold page edges negatively affect your consideration of purchasing this Bible (unless you have a radical disdain for all things gold).Best of luck in choosing your new Bible!Thanks!