Adult activity books emerge as a publishing phenomenon in Spain

Adult activity books have emerged as a significant publishing phenomenon in Spain, blending traditional puzzles with pop culture and mystery-solving elements. This trend is often linked to a desire for digital detoxing, as consumers seek analogue alternatives to smartphones.

Leading this movement is Murdoku, which has sold over 140,000 copies in Spain. The genre has evolved from the simple newsstand crosswords of the past into more complex notebooks featuring themes such as Netflix series, music, and cinema. This evolution follows a decade-long trend that began with adult coloring books marketed for art therapy and stress relief.

Publisher Blackie Books has been a key player in this market, releasing 14 volumes of its own activity books. The publisher reports sales exceeding 250,000 copies for its series, which includes exercises covering science, literature, and sports designed to provide mental stimulation.