Mandala is a Sanskrit word for "circle," and a mandala design is a circular design with repeating motifs in it. Some mandalas are very simple, while other mandala designs are quit complicated and intricate. A mandala coloring book can be quite complex, and it can be a very soothing thing for an older teen to receive. An older teen is too old for cartoon characters, but they will be drawn to the intricate and spiritual nature of mandalas, which allows them to create art that can be hung up on their walls.