This bookcase is slightly taller than the mantle on my fireplace and the first shelf is about the same if not a little higher than the mantle piece. It did take some time for my hubby to put together but it wasn't overly difficult, just a matter of putting all the pieces in the right order. The bottom bookshelf is the deepest and is deep enough for some hard backed books to stand up with some book ends. It is a beautiful rich color that adds warmth to my living room. I do love that it is open in the back so its easier to access wall plugs behind the bookcase.