Secret Garden Coloring Book for Adults - REVIEW

So, you may have read about the new trend in "Adult Coloring Books." THIS is THE book that started it. There are plenty of publishers who have tried to emulate what this book offers, (and I've been stupid enough to try others), and trust me, NO other book compares to Johanna Basford's coloring books. You might notice she has several different books with their own unique themes. This particular one is DINOSAURS! ...Kidding, it's of course a Secret Garden theme.

This particular item on Amazon comes with a free set of really nice "clear" stickers. They're not really/fully clear, but instead of the white boarder, it's clear. There's a slight transparency to the stickers, and they're the perfect addition to some of the white space on some of the pages.

I think one observation almost fully sums up the quality of this coloring book - it has a DUST JACKET. No detail has been overlooked with this book. The dust jack is even printed on the inside in case you want to color it. There is meticulous detail and care put into every place of this book... I took tons of pictures to help you see what I mean. I was jazzed to have the opportunity to sample this book, but take my word when I say it's an AWESOME book. Also, this is a better price online (plus it's offered with fast and free shipping via Prime), than it is in our local bookstores and craft shops (who retail it for $9.99 plus tax.)

What I didn't realize when I ordered this was there is more than just pretty pictures and TONS (seriously, hours & hours & hours-worth) of coloring places, but there are little hidden things throughout the book. For example, there are hidden owls, birds, hearts, etc... So there's an added element which is great. It isn't childish at all, it's elegantly done.

The paper quality is FANTASTIC. Thick with a very slight (perfect) texture. The pages are not transparent, and the texture makes it easy to use colored pencils on... though, you could use pastels, paint or even markers probably. I cannot express how much I RECOMMEND this book!!!! I knew it was arriving yesterday, and ALL DAY I looked forward to coming home and coloring it. I hadn't colored in YEARS --- I think that's going to change! My husband chuckled at me, and even told me I did a "Good job of staying in the lines." He was being playfully condescending, but I think he was secretly jealous. :)

This is an AWESOME coloring book for adults, and a great stress reliever for anyone (retired, at-home-mommies, hard-workers needing a break, etc.). I seriously hope I get to check out some of the other books by Johanna Basford! After reading my #Review, be sure to check out the entire collection of these: #SecretGardenAdultColoringBook