FASCINATING FUNGI

An enticing exploration of the astonishing world of fungi.

This easily comprehensible, accessibly written work introduces readers to fungi—mushrooms and mycelium, yeasts, and molds. In her introduction, Kenney explains that fungi are “not quite plant and not quite animal.” She goes on to describe their characteristics and appearance (divided into “The Beauties” and “The Oddities”). Two chapters cover edible mushrooms, their high nutritional value, and their role in world cuisine, and toxic fungi and their impact on people and crops. Later chapters explore mushrooms that can heal and ones with mind-altering properties. Readers learn about the burgeoning interest in using mushrooms to treat cancer, depression, and other ailments. This eye-opening narrative summarizes new scientific discoveries about how mycelia (“a network of fungal cells”) support and feed forests. The final chapter details cutting-edge research: using fungi’s antiviral properties to protect bees, creating self-repairing “intelligent buildings” that have “mycelial computers built into their walls,” extracting enzymes from fungi to break down plastic pollution, and other innovations. Kenney illuminates a largely unknown world—out of an estimated 2.2 to 12 million fungus species, scientists have discovered about 150,000—that holds exciting promise for our future. The pleasing visual layout includes color photos and captivating sidebars, often about historical cases or intriguing personal stories.

An extraordinarily well-researched, well-presented, and visually appealing book on a fascinating subject.