This is a book as unique as its author. Forget identification guides, forget books on the natural history of mushrooms, forget photographic guides, this book is all of those and more. There can be few mycologists as widely travelled as Taylor F. Lockwood, and even fewer who take beautiful photographs as well and who can write passionately, engagingly and knowledgeably about their subject.

In his pre-publication notice the author says that he has "...dedicated his career to capturing unique and gorgeous images of mushrooms, and now he's focussing on educating people about the wonders of these earthy delights". One glance at this book shows that he succeeds admirably. There are photographs here that make you gasp with astonishment and wonder, and look on in awe at the photographer's skill.

Organised like a literal trek around the world, the book is arranged by country or continent with page after page of full colour, perfectly composed photographs. Many but not all are identified; the author is not afraid to place a simple 'Unidentified" or 'sp.' beneath a picture. The object here is not to act as a field guide but to inspire, amaze and enthral you. The text is very much a travelogue, mentioning not just the fungi but the many people he met on the way, the various accidents, surprises and wildlife he encountered. There is discussion here of local customs regarding fungi and their uses as food and medicine, plus photographs of local mycologists.

His travels have taken him from Tibet to the Amazon, from Russia to South Africa, from the wettest tropics to the highland plateaus of Asia. He has certainly suffered for his art. There is a photograph of his face so swollen that he is hardly able to open his eyes after being stung by an African wasp, and another of a poisonous snake that almost ended his career.

Taylor is well known in the U.S.A. for his lectures, slide shows and educational videos but less so in Europe; this is the book that will hopefully change that situation. Buy the book, drool over the amazing fungi and then pack up your travel kit and get photographing!
Geoffrey Kibby—Field Mycology

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