Review by Choice Review
As was the case with his earlier books (e.g., The Triumph of the Fungi, CH, Feb'07, 44-3284; Mr. Bloomfield's Orchard, CH, Feb'03, 40-3396), Money's recent book on mushrooms, designed to bring knowledge of fungi to nonmycologists, is excellent. The eight chapters are independent essays; each delves into the diverse facets of mushrooms from their general biology and ecology to the way humans use mushrooms. These chapters cover mushroom hunting, cultivation, and consumption, and include discussions of nutrition, toxins, mind-altering effects, and herbal applications. The articulate, witty text flows smoothly and informally, making for enjoyable reading. The information is detailed and current. The way that Money (Miami Univ., Ohio) is willing to take a position on controversial topics and share points of view in a clear but nondogmatic fashion is refreshing. The composition of the essays, with a minimum of scientific terminology, is such that an educated nonscientist will be able to understand the concepts thoroughly. The content and writing style make this book appropriate for anyone from the general reader interested in mushrooms to the professional mycologist seeking a summary of current information. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All levels/libraries. K. M. Foos emeritus, Indiana University East
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Booklist Review
Before the dawn of modern science, scholars thought mushrooms that mysteriously appeared overnight in woods and meadows might be worms or sponges, and because some species were poisonous to eat, they were often vilified as the tools of witchcraft. Though botanical studies now show their ecological importance in recycling organic wastes and chefs show high regard for them grilled or stuffed, people still believe many myths about mushrooms. In his fourth book about fungi, mycologist Money campaigns to defeat pseudoscientific ideas that lead to misuse of mushrooms as dietary wonder drugs, anticancer remedies, aphrodisiacs, and hallucinogens. In eight essays mixing botany, history, and his own experiences as a mushroom hunter, he portrays mushrooms as a diversified family of organisms worthy of wonder and in need of conservation to save threatened species that might still reveal important scientific secrets. Technical language is often followed by personal reflections in this accessible book of science. For popular and academic collections.--Roche, Rick Copyright 2010 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
