4 Adult Coloring Books with a Twist

I hardly need to introduce you to adult coloring books. They are everywhere, and many grownups have spent countless hours relaxing by coloring in pictures using pen, pencil, or crayon. Here are four recent coloring books, each with a unique twist. Whether you're looking for a new book for yourself or are considering a gift for the holidays, you can't go wrong with any of these. Click on the images to see them full size; each shows the cover of the book and one of my creations.

Lost Ocean by Johanna Basford is subtitled "An Inky Adventure & Coloring Book." Besides having dozens of beautiful pictures to color in, artists will enjoy taking a virtual dive into the ocean, looking at shipwrecks, fish, coral, seaweed, and more. To up the fun factor, Basford has included a treasure hunt within the pictures: As you color, search the pages for watches, keys, rings, jewels, and other treasures that were lost to the depths of the oceans. Can you collect them all? (Penguin Books, October 2015)

The Time Garden by Daria Song is subtitled "A Magical Journey and Coloring Book." The pictures included in this book illustrate the story of a young girl who gets inside a magical cuckoo clock and from there discovers a fantastical world. The first drawings (one is seen here) are simple, but the pictures become more complicated as the girl climbs trees, meets a fairy, flies with an owl, and explores a variety of shops. You'll use your imagination, telling the story in your own way because the words disappear after a couple of pages. Boost several levels of your creativity with this beautiful book. (Watson-Guptill Publications, September 2015)

The Little Prince Coloring Book is just what you think it is. The entire story, complete with the familiar illustrations, is contained within the covers of this book. But you'll also find new drawings to color in. All are inspired by the original artwork and are just as enchanting. This is a must-have book for all Antoine de Saint-Exupery fans and a wonderful way to reacquaint yourself with the beloved classic. Share this coloring book with a young person, and watch him or her light up and fall in love with the Little Prince, as he learns about Earth and tells us about his home. (Harcourt Brace & Co., November 2015)

The Vampire Combat Field Guide by Roger Ma is an informative coloring book from the well-respected "Institute for Undead Combat Studies." Ever wonder how to tell vampire from human? Need to practice your self-defense moves? Unsure about what weapons to have on hand? This coloring book has your back. From basic anatomy to detailed training moves, the pictures in this book will teach you survival skills as you color in the pages. Whether you're young or old, you need to know the correct way to stake that fangy fiend who's trying to drain your body of its vital blood. Perfect for Halloween or for anytime you suspect there's the possibility of a vampire attack. (Berkley Books, October 2015)