A sketchbook can be many things: to some it is a record of people in a cafe prior to painting them; to others it is a visual memory of a traveller's journey. In this case, it is a beautiful record of the development of a successful botanical artist and is an inspirational guide. As part of the Distance Learning Course run by the Society of Botanical Artists, students are required to keep a sketchbook. The one kept by Mary Ann Scott is exceptional. Her book covers the colour charts, exercises and basic preparatory work for each assignment, plus the finished studies. It is a masterclass for all aspiring botanical artists.