Astounding Mushrooms

This book showcases the incredible diversity of mushrooms with over one million species worldwide. It features stunning full-color photographs of 200+ mushroom species in their natural habitats, providing a glimpse into the fascinating world of fungi. The text explains the biology and characteristics of mushrooms, including their shapes, textures, colors, and edible or deadly nature. Mushrooms are increasingly popular among locavores, vegans, and wild food enthusiasts, and this book encourages readers to explore and appreciate this unique living species.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2022
Publisher: Firefly Books Ltd

A breathtaking exploration into the enigmatic realm of mushrooms reveals itself as a captivating journey beneath our very feet. With an estimated one million species of mushrooms thriving worldwide, this remarkable book offers a glimpse into some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring specimens found on our planet. During leisurely afternoon treks through the enchanting woods, there exists a vast array of natural wonders that often go unnoticed. However, Astounding Mushrooms ignites a spark of curiosity, urging us to embark on a fresh exploration with a renewed vision.

Within the pages of this captivating book, readers are treated to a stunning display of full-colour photographs showcasing over 200 mushroom species in their natural habitats. The close-up images capture every intricate detail, from the miniature buttons to the majestic fans, the intricate silhouettes, and the delicate textures. The accompanying chapter text delves into the fascinating world of fungi, providing insights into their unique nature as neither animals nor plants. Concise captions accompany each photograph, identifying the mushrooms and offering further descriptions of their biology, ecology, and culinary applications.

What truly sets mushrooms apart is their astonishing diversity. From the whimsical shapes of buttons and nests to the intricate formations of fans, feet, clubs, hooves, trumpets, mesh, tentacles, stars, tubes, and spines, these living organisms exhibit a remarkable range of forms. The textures of mushrooms are equally captivating, ranging from smooth and shiny to pimpled and dry, and from edible to deadly. The palette of colours and blushes is a symphony of yellows, reds, blues, and greens, with some specimens adorned with speckles, stinky aromas, slimy exteriors, hairy surfaces, or fuzzy appendages.

The growing interest in wild mushrooms among locavores, vegans, and wild food enthusiasts is a testament to their culinary appeal and nutritional value. Chefs across the globe are incorporating these fungi into their dishes, showcasing their unique flavours and textures. Mushroom hunting tours have gained popularity, attracting enthusiasts who embark on quests to gather these precious ingredients. Online communities, filled with mycolophiles, are actively sharing their enthusiasm, identification tips, and captivating mushroom-related stories, fostering a sense of camaraderie among like-minded individuals.

Astounding Mushrooms invites readers to immerse themselves in the extraordinary world of fungi. It serves as a gateway to a realm where nature's creativity knows no bounds, where each mushroom species is a unique masterpiece waiting to be discovered. With this book as your guide, you will embark on a journey of exploration, marveling at the beauty, diversity, and culinary wonders of the fungal kingdom.

Dimension: 190 x 184 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780228103868