An Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Identifying 29 Wild, Edible Mushrooms
by Frank Hyman
5 stars
A fascinating read. Perfect for beginners.
This is a book written for laypeople interested in mushroom foraging. Because of that, it focuses on the need-to-know information versus getting caught up too much in the science. This means there are some generalizations made to simplify information, but the essentials are all there. The format is very user-friendly, perfect for reading through then using as a reference to identify in the field.
The book covers common mushrooms, the majority of which can be identified without a spore print. It also focuses on essential traits versus subjective ones (smell).
After covering the basics of anatomy and safety tips, the book is broken down into sections of mushrooms that grow on trees (non-gilled and gilled) and those that grow on the ground (non-gilled and gilled) as well as Killers and Sickeners to stay clear of.
Each mushroom entry contains its Latin and common name(s), how to consume, how to preserve, whether it is cultivate, and look-alikes. It also contains a Field ID Checklist of characteristics for positive identification. Nice, full-color photographs make for easy comparisons.
Interspersed throughout are personal stories and experiences, which make the book both informational and entertaining.
A great place to start whether you’re interested in foraging or just want to be able to identify mushrooms in the wild. Humorous, informational, and very user-friendly. A great resource for those starting out on their mushroom adventure.