Typical for this consistently superb publisher, this volume is authoritative, thoughtfully organized, and filled with excellent photos. Written by two specialists who teach at the U. of Washington in Seattle, the guide presents detailed descriptions of 450 mushrooms, with a color photo of each. Written with the amateur mushroom gatherer in mind, the guide begins with an introduction to mushrooms, the various types, tips and cautions for mushroom hunting, and very specific advice regarding eating wild mushrooms. The entries for the individual types of mushrooms mention edibility. Poisonous types are included as well, with careful descriptions, including comparison to edible mushrooms with a similar appearance, and an appendix about mushroom poisoning. A glossary is included. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)