Dr. Fun Guy's Passport to Kingdom Fungi: A Scientist's Guide to the Wild and Wonderful World of Mushrooms, Molds, and More

Learn the basics of fungal biology, foraging, and identification in this in-depth illustrated introduction from the beloved scientist, mushroom enthusiast, and social media star behind Fascinated By Fungi.

In Dr. Fun Guy's Passport to Kingdom Fungi, biochemist and lifelong mushroom afficionado Dr. Gordon Walker brings his scientific knowledge and love for everything fungi to the page.

The first section of the book is written in a comprehensive question-and-answer format. Starting with "What are fungi?," it covers everything from what mycelium is and fungi's evolution and biochemistry to how they are classified and how they impact our world today. There is also information on best foraging practices, culinary techniques, and mushroom identification skills. The second half of the book profiles various mushrooms and other fungi, from incredible edibles you can find in the wild to the dangerously toxic, medicinal, and just plain weird. Finally, Gordon covers fungal phenomena, showing the amazing breadth and diversity of the fungal kingdom.

Featuring colorful and comprehensive science illustrations, mushroom photography, and QR codes linking to resources to help you continue your fungal explorations, this is the perfect portal to step through into the world of mushrooms.

About the Author

Dr. Gordon Walker is originally from Cambridge, Massachusetts, but also spent time growing up on the Northshore of Massachusetts. For college, he attended UC Santa Cruz, obtaining a BS in biochemistry. For graduate school, he attended UC Davis where he completed his PhD in biochemistry and molecular biology. He then worked at Opus One Winery isolating wild yeast and pioneering new wine technologies. He spent time working in biotechnology around the San Francisco Bay Area, then returned to UC Davis where he completed post-doctoral work on fermentation process control. Besides his passion for all things fungi and fermentation, he is an avid chef, forager, sailor, SCUBA diver, and gardener. He resides in Napa, California.

Author Residence: Napa, CA

Author Hometown: Cambridge, MA