Alice in Wonderland Mini Stained Glass Coloring Book (Dover Little Activity Books Stories) by Marty Noble

Few stories have captured the imagination quite like Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Lewis Carroll’s surreal masterpiece has inspired countless adaptations, from films to art books—and now, Marty Noble’s Alice in Wonderland Mini Stained Glass Coloring Book offers a fresh, interactive way to experience Wonderland.

This charming little book from Dover’s Little Activity Books: Stories series blends nostalgia with creativity, inviting readers to color their way through Alice’s fantastical journey. But is it just another coloring book, or does it stand out as a unique tribute to Carroll’s world? Let’s dive in and find out.

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For those who haven’t read Alice in Wonderland (or need a refresher), the story follows young Alice as she tumbles down a rabbit hole into a bizarre, dreamlike world. She encounters eccentric characters like the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, and the Queen of Hearts, each more absurd than the last.

Noble’s book doesn’t retell the story—instead, it distills key moments into 16 intricate stained-glass-style illustrations. From Alice’s first meeting with the White Rabbit to the chaotic tea party, each page is a snapshot of Wonderland’s madness, waiting to be brought to life with color.

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One of the joys of this book is seeing Noble’s artistic take on Carroll’s beloved characters:

• Alice – Rendered with a classic Victorian flair, her wide-eyed curiosity shines through.
• The Cheshire Cat – His mischievous grin is perfectly captured, floating eerily in mid-air.
• The Mad Hatter & March Hare – Their chaotic tea party scene is a highlight, full of dynamic energy.
• The Queen of Hearts – Her infamous "Off with their heads!" moment is depicted with dramatic flair.

Noble’s illustrations stay true to John Tenniel’s original designs while adding a stained-glass aesthetic, making them feel both timeless and fresh.

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Since this is a coloring book, there’s no new narrative text—but the visual storytelling is superb. Each illustration is carefully composed to evoke a key moment, allowing colorists to "read" the story through images. The stained-glass effect adds a dreamy, almost church-window quality, reinforcing Wonderland’s otherworldly atmosphere.

For those who love Carroll’s wordplay, the lack of text might feel like a loss. However, the book’s strength lies in its ability to spark imagination—what colors would the Caterpillar smoke? How vibrant should the Queen’s roses be?

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At its core, Alice in Wonderland is about the fluidity of identity and the absurdity of societal rules. Noble’s illustrations subtly reinforce these themes:

• Transformation – Alice’s size changes are depicted dynamically.
• Illusion vs. Reality – The Cheshire Cat’s fading form plays with perception.
• Whimsy & Chaos – The Mad Hatter’s scene is delightfully disordered.

By coloring these scenes, readers engage with these themes in a tactile, personal way.

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As someone who grew up with Alice in Wonderland, this book was a nostalgic treat. The illustrations are detailed enough to be satisfying but not so intricate that they’re overwhelming. I particularly loved the White Rabbit’s frantic energy—coloring his waistcoat felt like stepping into the story.

The small size (about 4x6 inches) makes it portable, though some may prefer larger pages for more detailed work. The paper holds up well to colored pencils, though markers might bleed through.

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Compared to other Alice-themed coloring books, Noble’s stained-glass approach is unique. Many books opt for hyper-detailed realism or cartoonish styles, but this one strikes a balance—whimsical yet elegant. It’s more accessible than Johanna Basford’s intricate designs but offers more depth than a children’s scribble book.

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✔ Unique stained-glass aesthetic – Stands out from typical coloring books.
✔ Faithful to original illustrations – Honors Tenniel’s classic designs.
✔ Portable & affordable – Great for on-the-go creativity.

❌ No text or context – Newcomers might miss story details.
❌ Small size – Those who love large, elaborate pages may find it limiting.

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• Alice in Wonderland fans – A must-have for collectors.
• Casual colorists – Not overly complex, great for relaxation.
• Parents & educators – Fun for introducing kids to classic literature.

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• "Drink Me" Bottle – A simple yet iconic moment.
• Cheshire Cat in the Tree – His grin is irresistibly fun to color.
• The Final Trial – The Queen’s court scene is dramatic and engaging.

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Carroll’s Alice has been a cultural touchstone since 1865, inspiring everything from Disney films to psychedelic art. Noble’s stained-glass interpretation nods to the story’s timeless, almost mythic quality—like a window into another world.

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Ready to add this whimsical coloring book to your collection? Grab your copy here:
Amazon

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Marty Noble’s Alice in Wonderland Mini Stained Glass Coloring Book is a charming, creative way to revisit Carroll’s classic. While it doesn’t replace the original text, it offers a fresh, hands-on way to engage with the story. Whether you’re a lifelong Alice fan or just love relaxing with a coloring book, this little gem is worth exploring.

What’s your favorite Alice in Wonderland moment? How would you color the Mad Hatter’s hat? Share your thoughts below! 🎩✨

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