'Mushroom Hunting for Beginners' by Gary Lincoff

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5 stars)

'Mushroom Hunting for Beginners: A Starter's Guide to Identifying and Foraging Fungi' by Gary Lincoff is an absolute gem for those new to the fascinating world of mushroom foraging. With the rise of TikTok and the allure of reconnecting with nature, this book serves as an excellent introduction, guiding enthusiasts through the enchanting realm of fungi in an accessible and informative manner.

Gary Lincoff's expertise as a mycologist shines through every page of this beautifully written guide. From the outset, it is evident that the author's passion for fungi is infectious, making it an ideal starting point for beginners seeking to embark on their mushroom hunting journey. Lincoff's genuine love for the subject matter permeates the text, leaving readers excited and eager to explore the wilderness in search of these elusive organisms.

The book strikes the perfect balance between being informative and approachable. Lincoff's explanations are clear, concise, and free from unnecessary jargon, making it easy for novices to grasp the essential concepts of mushroom identification and foraging. The use of simple language combined with helpful illustrations aids in understanding the various aspects of mushroom hunting, including the different species, habitats, and safety precautions.

One of the most significant strengths of 'Mushroom Hunting for Beginners' is the emphasis on safety. Lincoff dedicates ample space to discussing the potential dangers of foraging and provides valuable tips on distinguishing edible mushrooms from toxic ones. This focus on safety is crucial for anyone venturing into the world of foraging, ensuring that readers can confidently explore their surroundings without unnecessary risks.

The book also serves as a gateway to fostering a deeper connection with nature. Lincoff's storytelling flair shines through as he shares personal anecdotes and experiences, which instills a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world. This aspect of the book is particularly heartwarming, inspiring readers to slow down, appreciate the beauty of the outdoors, and cultivate a stronger bond with the land.

In conclusion, 'Mushroom Hunting for Beginners' is a must-have resource for anyone eager to dive into the captivating realm of mushroom foraging. Gary Lincoff's passion, knowledge, and ability to communicate complex topics in an approachable manner make this book an invaluable asset for beginners.

If I see a mushroom guide, I immediate pick it up, so I’ve read through quite a few.

I don’t really mushroom forage, just one or two species that I’m thoroughly confident with and I wouldn’t encourage anyone to go foraging with just a book for the first time, this book being no different.

There’s a lot of research gone into this and it’s a great little guide. This is a smaller and more affordable version of a much larger well known book and therefore works great as a field companion if you’re already somewhat familiar, although it could be a great intro to people starting out with learning about mushrooms.

Wow, I am so unbelievably impressed with this book. It must have taken a lot of effort and time to compile all of the information and lay it out in an easy to understand way. Everything is so organized and the pictures and charts and so helpful. The pictures are really crisp and help with identification. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I saw this book was on "Read Now" and I had to get it! I have a friend who forages for mushrooms and finds the expensive kind not only for her but she sells them to restaurants in the area! She has told me there are poisonous mushrooms all over our city and I realized I know nothing about them, So this book is perfect! I have learned so much and I am sharing it with my kids. I will probably just purchase it though when it comes out. Thank you!

It does what it promises: teach you about foraging for mushrooms. Very basic, but clear and accesible.

The author does a detailed job of explaining the characteristics of each mushroom discussed. The color images lend to the authenticity of this book. It provides information that a person familiar with mushrooms could use as an identification guide.