Mushrooms became the objectsof scientific study in the seventeenth century. Pioneers of mushroom science have included paragons of eccentricity and their remarkable stories are celebrated in this book.
Mushrooms are loved, despised, feared, and misunderstood. They havebeen a familiar part of nature throughout human history and occupy a specialplace in our consciousness. Nicholas P. Money introduces the mythologyand science of the spectacular array of fungi that produce mushrooms, thehistory of our interactions with these curious and beautiful organisms, and theways that humans use mushrooms as food, medicine, and recreational drugs.
Mushrooms are not self-contained organisms like worms or beetles.They are fruit bodies, or reproductive organs, produced by fungi whosefeeding colonies, or mycelia, are hidden in soil or rotting wood. Thesecolonies support life on land by decomposing plant and animal debris,fertilising soils, and sustaining plant growth through partnerships calledmycorrhizas. Some of the fungi that produce mushrooms cause diseasesof trees and shrubs, and the airborne spores of others are a major cause ofasthma and hay fever. Mushrooms release so many spores into the atmospherethat they may affect local weather conditions and promote rainfall.Poisonous mushrooms were described by classical writers and ediblespecies were important in Roman cuisine.
Mushrooms became the objectsof scientific study in the seventeenth century. Pioneers of mushroom science have included paragons of eccentricity and their remarkable stories are celebrated in this book.
Mushrooms are loved, despised, feared, and misunderstood. They havebeen a familiar part of nature throughout human history and occupy a specialplace in our consciousness. Nicholas P. Money introduces the mythologyand science of the spectacular array of fungi that produce mushrooms, thehistory of our interactions with these curious and beautiful organisms, and theways that humans use mushrooms as food, medicine, and recreational drugs.
Mushrooms are not self-contained organisms like worms or beetles.They are fruit bodies, or reproductive organs, produced by fungi whosefeeding colonies, or mycelia, are hidden in soil or rotting wood. Thesecolonies support life on land by decomposing plant and animal debris,fertilising soils, and sustaining plant growth through partnerships calledmycorrhizas. Some of the fungi that produce mushrooms cause diseasesof trees and shrubs, and the airborne spores of others are a major cause ofasthma and hay fever. Mushrooms release so many spores into the atmospherethat they may affect local weather conditions and promote rainfall.Poisonous mushrooms were described by classical writers and ediblespecies were important in Roman cuisine.
Mushrooms became the objectsof scientific study in the seventeenth century. Pioneers of mushroom science have included paragons of eccentricity and their remarkable stories are celebrated in this book.
Object Lessons is a series of short, beautifully designed books about the hidden lives of ordinary things.
They are the things we step on without noticing and the largest organisms on Earth. They are...
BookLoop is your trusted local Australian destination for books, games, toys, puzzles, tarot cards, stationery, and thoughtful gifts, offering a huge range of carefully curated products for curious minds of all ages. As a proudly Australian-owned bookstore, we are passionate about connecting our community with inspiring reads, creative play, and unique finds that bring joy, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. Whether you're shopping for bestselling fiction, children’s picture books, educational resources, or non-fiction titles that encourage mental health, mindfulness, and personal growth, our ever-expanding book collection has something for everyone—including titles from local Australian authors that celebrate homegrown talent and storytelling. But we’re more than just a bookstore—our diverse range includes engaging puzzles for solo or family fun, educational and screen-free toys designed to develop skills and creativity, and family-friendly board games that bring people together. If you're looking for something with a little extra meaning, our beautifully illustrated tarot cards and oracle decks are perfect for beginners and seasoned readers alike, with options chosen for their artistry, symbolism, and accessibility. We also carry a range of gifts and stationery, from handcrafted journals and high-quality pens to bookmarks, greeting cards, candles, and calming tools, making it easy to find the perfect present for birthdays, celebrations, or simply because. Every product on our shelves is selected with care, quality, and purpose, making BookLoop a one-stop shop for thoughtful, meaningful shopping that supports creativity and wellbeing. We believe in the value of small business and community connection, which is why we’re committed to sourcing products that reflect our values and offering the kind of friendly, personalised service that big retailers can’t match. When you shop with us, you’re not only choosing beautifully curated items—you’re supporting a local Australian business that genuinely cares. We ship Australia-wide with a flat rate to keep things simple and affordable, and every order is carefully packed and quickly dispatched by our small, dedicated team. Our online shopping experience is safe, easy, and user-friendly, making it convenient to explore our wide range of books, gifts, and games from the comfort of home. We’ve seen a growing demand for titles and toys that support mental health, especially in children and teens, and we’re proud to stock a growing number of books on ADHD, emotional regulation, positive thinking, and self-esteem, as well as calming puzzles and sensory-friendly gifts that are both fun and supportive. Whether you're looking to inspire a young reader, encourage imaginative play, find your next favourite novel, or gift someone something truly special, BookLoop has you covered. Thank you for choosing to shop local and support a business that believes in the power of stories, creativity, and connection—explore our full collection today and experience the difference of thoughtful, heart-led retail with BookLoop.
Sign In
your cart
Your cart is empty
Menu
Search
PRE-SALES
If you have any questions before making a purchase chat with our online operators to get more information.
