Field Notes from a Fungi Forager is a gorgeously illustrated useful field guide with observations for the fungi of the Pacific NW written by Ashley Rodriguez. Released 15th Oct 2024 by Sasquatch Books, it's 176 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats.
The author has a respectful and accessible voice throughout the book. This isn't really a foraging guide (the author is quite specific in that regard); it's more a beautifully illustrated monograph on some of the fungi (and other species) to be found in the Pacific NW, and her own experiences hiking and foraging.
There are useful resources throughout; the book opens with an alphabetical species listing with page numbers for quick reference. There's a quick primer on fungal life cycles and biology, which is followed by the individual listings. Each entry includes botanical nomenclatures including family designation, appearance, habitat, season(s), and detailed notes.
The illustrations by Libby England are clear, colorful, and detailed. Although not photorealistic enough to work for actual definitive ID purposes, they absolutely are clear enough to recognize.
Four and a half stars. Very well done. Not a comprehensive guide, and it has a limited range focus (Pacific NW of North America), but overall a worthwhile addition to library collections and home reference.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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