Funky Fungi - (Young Naturalists) by Alisha Gabriel & Sue Heavenrich (Paperback)

About the Book

"Fungi are everywhere! They live in the coldest corner of Antarctica and on hot, sandy desert dunes. They're in the air you breathe, the ground you walk on, and the food you eat. But fungi are more than pizza toppings. They form partnerships with plants and help us clean up our planet through bioremediation. Some fungi eat our crops; others protect them. Some fungi cause diseases; others cure them. Some are bigger than you; others are so tiny you need a microscope to see them. And now, people are finding ways to use fungi to make furniture, building materials, and even sneakers. So grab your gear, and let's go find some funky fungi." -- page [4] of cover

Book Synopsis

2023 AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books Hands-On Science Book winner

Fungi are everywhere!

They live in the coldest corner of Antarctica and on hot, sandy desert dunes. They're in the air you breathe and the food you eat. But fungi are more than pizza toppings.

They form partnerships with plants and help us clean up our planet through bioremediation. Some fungi eat our crops; others protect them. Some fungi cause diseases; others cure them. Some are bigger than you; others are so tiny you need a microscope to see them.

And now, people are finding ways to use fungi to make furniture, building materials, and even sneakers.

So grab your gear and let's go find some Funky Fungi.

Review Quotes

"Brimming with fascinating facts and interesting STEM activities, Funky Fungi engages curious readers. The lively text and vivid illustrations make this book a valuable resource for anyone who wants to explore the wonderful world of fungi." --Gail Jarrow, author of Blood and Germs

"For the kid (or adult) who is captivated by mushrooms, this book has it all: facts and fun! The kind of facts kids gossip about: how a fly is zombie-fied, designer shoes from mushroom materials, etc. The kinds of fun kids can dig into: Plan Your Own Fungi Fest and A Mushroom to Dye For. Fungal FUN for everyone!" --Heather Montgomery, author of What's in Your Pocket?

"Gabriel and Heavenrich give us a peek into the awesome world of fungi with this excellent and informative book. Through tons of great activities, they shed light on some of the world's most intriguing funky fungi and how they are not just tasty to eat, but actually can be used as medicines, in building materials, and yes, even in your favorite sneakers. A must read for any curious kid who wants to learn all about the fungus living 'amongus'." --Jennifer Swanson, author of Outdoor School

About the Author

Alisha Gabriel is an elementary music teacher and university professor. Her writing has been published in Highlights for Children and Pockets, and she has written five books for children. Sue Heavenrich is an independent environmental journalist with a master's degree in biology. She written for Ranger Rick, Cobblestone, Highlights for Children, and more. She has written half a dozen books for children. A former science teacher, Sue counts pollinators as a citizen scientist and writes a bimonthly science column for a regional parenting newspaper.