As soon as Mackenzie Finklea reached out to me on Instagram about her book, I knew it would be something I'd enjoy. I come from a family of history fanatics and adore museums, my partner proposed in The British Library (part museum, part library and part magic) and we spent the rest of our day wandering around London's museums. Finklea allows us a look behind the curtain and inspires you to take museums more seriously.

At the beginning of the book there's almost a disclaimer, saying that the book is tailored for those who may not enjoy museums at all and not the connoisseur. I was worried - but I shouldn't have been. After reading this book I forced my partner to agree to accept a new challenge: visit every museum in the UK. A quick google search showed me there were 6 museums in my city. I've only visited 2 of them (and plan to get married in a 3rd). In the UK in particular, there's no reason for the drop in museum numbers - it's a free, educational day out, why wouldn't we go? And yet, there is a problem worldwide with visitors dropping.

As a generation becoming more aware, its important we continue to support the arts, as museums play a vital role in our art and culture. Whilst we may not agree with some exhibitions and the ethics behind acquisitions, it is unfair to judge all museums the same. With proper research, you can find museums which are not wrapped up in problematic situations. The opposite view, is that this is a unique opportunity to witness artefacts that may soon be returned. Beyond the Halls helps remind you just how important museums are and why they're truly magical.

Finklea's work explore museum myths, teaches new ways to enjoy the day out and approach exhibits. Her enthusiasm and passion for museums is infectious and her advice is brilliant. I particularly loved the sheer number of museums (virtual, physical and somewhere in between) she highlighted throughout her work. Immediately after reading I checked out Virmuse and am excited to watch the platform grow and expand. Her inclusion of online and virtual exhibits allows the reader to consider the place of the museum in a modern world.

I loved reading Beyond The Halls and am so thankful for the gifted copy. This a book everyone should read; it'll help open your eyes to the joy of museums. It's a book that's incredibly hard to review as your response will differ greatly and it's supposed to be an experience. I hope you pick it up and fall in love with museum's all over again like I have.