I'm in love with my bookcase! Such a great quality item at an amazing price. There is a smell to it when it is first unboxed but that disappears not long after. The only problem was some of the holes weren't big enough for the shelf supports and the round details at the top of the bookcase, my husband and I managed to make these larger without damaging the bookcase. One section of wood was damp and soft but it's very sturdy. the pieces aren't numbered so you have to look carefully at the instructions to make sure you have the right piece but we managed to put it together correctly first time. I would recommend this item, my mother in law wants one!