The Magic of Mushrooms: Fungi in Folklore, Superstition and Traditional Medicine

Explore the weird and 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.

From fungi that grow after thunderstorms to Central American mushroom cults, from the discovery of penicillin to Roman poison mistresses, and from supernatural mushrooms from space to gods of beer, The Magic of Mushrooms contains dozens of weird and wonderful stories, traditions and fascinating facts told by expert author Sandra Lawrence.

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.