Beginner's Guide to Mushroom Books: A Review by Britt Bunyard

The Audubon Guide to Mushrooms is a seminal work in the field of mycology and an essential guide for mushroom enthusiasts. As someone who began their journey with this very book, I consider it to be one of the most significant books in the world of mushroom identification. Before its release, field guides were often cumbersome, lacking the pocket-sized practicality needed for field use. Gary Lincoff's book, part of the Audubon Guide series, changed that by introducing high-quality color photographs and user-friendly descriptions, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned mycologists.

This guide is not just about identifying mushrooms; it also provides common names for many species, a practice that Lincoff initiated for this book. The inclusion of toxicity and edibility information is invaluable for foragers. The Audubon Guide has remained the bestselling guide in the series, a testament to its enduring utility and influence. It set a new standard for field guides and remains a must-have for anyone interested in the diverse world of fungi.

The Complete Mushroom Hunter is the ultimate guide for those just starting their journey into the world of mushroom hunting. Gary Lincoff's book is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to foraging, covering essential topics such as identification, edibility, toxicity, and many others. It's an excellent resource for anyone looking to gain a solid foundation in mycology.

What sets this book apart is its practical advice coupled with engaging anecdotes. Lincoff shares his experiences and encounters in the field, offering readers a glimpse into the adventures of mushroom hunting. The book is organized by mushroom groups, such as morels, polypores, and gilled mushrooms, making it easy to navigate and understand. Whether you're a novice mushroomer or looking to take your fungal knowledge to the next level, The Complete Mushroom Hunter is an invaluable resource that combines educational content with the joy of exploration.

The Beginner's Guide to Mushrooms by Britt Bunyard and Tavis Lynch is an excellent resource for those just starting their journey into the world of mycology. This guide provides a comprehensive introduction to mushroom identification, covering essential topics such as edibility, toxicity, and the benefits of joining a mushroom club or society. It's an excellent resource for any newly-minted mushroom enthusiast wishing to gain a quick understanding of the world of mushrooms.

One of the best features of this book is it can be used by people in many different parts of the world to gain an understanding of how to figure out what mushroom species exist in their part of the world. The book covers many different groups of mushrooms and informs the reader which features are crucial to telling them apart. A bonus to the wide-ranging information about wild mushrooms, the book also includes an informative section, written by Tavis Lynch, on how to easily cultivate mushrooms at home.

These reviews highlight some of the best resources for anyone interested in starting or expanding their knowledge of mycology. Gary Lincoff's contributions to the field through two of these books have made the world of mushrooms more accessible and understandable, ensuring that both beginners and advanced enthusiasts have the tools they need to explore this fascinating subject. Bunyard’s book provides an excellent jumping-off point for anyone who has become interested in fungi and wants to learn more.