A strange phenomenon has hit the world of higher education. The book industry has seen an increase in the production of coloring books. In the 90s, professors found that students retained information on hundreds of bones and muscles better if they colored them.

“I’ve used coloring to distress, but I’ve usually painted and never used books.” Evolution biology major Cristela Ramirez said.

The process of coloring involves two senses; touch and sight, as well as use of the frontal lobe, language and speech cognition –retaining what you read and how you place the colors on the page. It is organized fun.

“I would imagine they (coloring books) would be really good as de-stressing and relaxing tools,” 20-year-old history major, Francis Anderson said.

At SJCC’s campus bookstore, coloring book choices have increased. At the beginning of the Fall semester, they carried three: “Fairies in Wonderland,” “Enchanted Forest” and “The Secret Garden.” Now they offer: “Game of Thrones,” “Doctor Who,” “Hot Dudes,” “404 Not Found,” along with Harry Potter’s “Fantastic Beasts.”

“I have used 3 or 4 coloring books,” Early childhood education major, Angelica Chavez, said, “when I’m bored or stressed out.”

So, whether you are looking for a way to ease the stress of exams or just trying to have fun, consider coloring.