In Search of Mycotopia

Citizen Science, Fungi Fanatics, and the Untapped Potential of Mushrooms

By: Doug Bierend

Narrated by: René Ruiz

From ecology to fermentation, in pop culture and in medicine - mushrooms are everywhere and In Search of Mycotopia is a listener's expert guide through the weird, wonderful world of fungi and the amazing modern mycological movement.

The book introduces us to an incredible, essential, and oft-overlooked kingdom of life - fungi - and all the potential it holds for our future, through the work and research being done by an unforgettable community of mushroom-mad citizen scientists and microbe devotees. This entertaining and mind-expanding journey will captivate listeners who are curious about the hidden worlds and networks that make up our planet.

Author Doug Bierend uncovers a vanguard of mycologists; growers, independent researchers, ecologists, entrepreneurs, and amateur enthusiasts exploring and advocating for fungi’s capacity to improve and heal. From decontaminating landscapes and waterways to achieving food security, In Search of Mycotopia demonstrates how humans can work with fungi to better live with nature—and with one another.

©2021 Doug Bierend (P)2021 Chelsea Green Publishing

Critic reviews

"The author’s sharp ear for dialogue imbues his word portraits with vivid detail.... Mushrooms are having a moment. [A] natural sequel for the many readers who enjoyed Merlin Sheldrake’s Entangled Life." (Library Journal)

"Comprehensive and enthusiastic.... This fascinating, informative look into a unique subculture and the fungi at its center is a real treat." (Publishers Weekly)

"Nothing is impossible if you bring mushrooms into your life, and this book is a great way to begin your journey." (Tradd Cotter, author of Organic Mushroom Farming and Mycoremediation)

Mycotastic

I really enjoyed this book. The depth and breadth of information not only directly about fungi, but also about how humans are affected mentally, physically, psychologically, spiritually, and financially by fungi is phenomenal. Definitely has me wanting to join a local mycological group and start enjoying the benefits of a life enhanced by mycology.

Eye Opening

Really enjoyed this book. Before I started, there was a lot I didn't know. Now I definitely know more.

A Unique Story

This was a very interesting story. I really enjoyed learning new things about fungi and the people who study and grow them.

Very informative but with some additional caveats

First off, I'm incredibly impressed with the author's dedication to detail on all things fungi. This book goes over many broad topics related to mycology with a surprisingly technical, fined tooth comb: the science, the politics, the economies, the social aspects, and more. My only critique is that when it comes to the social aspects of more mycology movements, it does seem that the author seems to go on tangents on some (not all) social justice causes that have emerged in the modern mycology world. In today's polarizing climate (at least in The States) I can understand the urge to discuss these, and I respect the attempt. It's just that when the author does, I can't help but perceive this book diverging from an informational or non-biased dialogue to a somewhat biased one. Of course, this observation is ultimately an individual one and thus the responsibility of each reader (or listener) to determine. still, for myself there were two chapters that I had to fast forward through because I simply didn't believe them to be of any informational worth. however, I don't want to end my review on a critical note. overall, I'm very glad I bought this and listened. I've been stooped in the world of fungi for a bit over 6 years now and yet I learned a lot from this book and I'm deeply appreciative. I hope the author continues to publish more work. 4.5 out of 5.

I love it.

As an educated mycophile I found this book engaged g and informative. it touches on both the academic/scientific as well as the social elements of the mycological community in an engaging and even entertaining way. I have not read a book so fast in a while.