The Magic Of Mushrooms by Sandra Lawrence

Book Review

An entire book about mushrooms that’s not about forgaring! Instead it’s about the many and varied ways the mushroom has played a part in the stories, lore and rituals of humans.

Here’s the blurb:

Explore the wonderful world of some of the most incredible natural forms on our planet - fungi. At the centre of countless superstitions, folkloric tales and magical beliefs, as well as appearing in recipes and medicines both traditional and modern, mushrooms have incredible powers. Featuring images of over 100 fascinating species, sourced from the archives at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, The Magic of Mushrooms shows that from saving lives to expanding the mind, the potential of these fascinating organisms should not be underestimated.

From the ancient Egyptians to the cosy crime fiction of the twentieth century Lawrence has created an excellent almost encyclopedic resource packed full of fascinating folklore and history concerning the much maligned mushroom.

Beautifully illustrated througout, each chapter explores a differnt aspect of the role fungi have played in our history and will contine to play long after we are gone. There is plenty of new info for the enquiring mind and I can guarantee you Lawrence will teach you something about mushrooms that you didn’t already know.

This would make an excellent gift for the fungi fiend in your life and an intriguing addition to any coffee table.

You can buy Sandra Lawrence’s , ‘The Magic Of Mushrooms’ in all good bookshops.

If you would like to buy a copy online, please consider visiting my page on Bookshop.org where I have gathered some of the books I read and recommend. Here you will find a plethora of myth, legend and folktale.

And don’t forget to support your local library too and see if they have a copy to borrow.