In this delightfully offbeat informational book with a friendly, engaging narrative and comic-style art, mushrooms take center stage. The silliness of the illustrations, including mushrooms with googly eyes, is part of the overall charm, but so, too, is the author’s enthusiasm, whether she’s describing mushroom hunting with her children, or some of her many favorite types (many are not edible, while some, she cautions, are downright deadly). The interplay of narrative and art offers moments of laugh-out-loud humor, while Gravel’s appreciation is boundless, whether commenting on the poetry of mushroom names (Pink Disco, Cat Dapperling, Whiskery Milkcap, Devil’s Fingers…) or the quirkiness of their appearance. Gravel cautions readers about the importance of not eating unknown mushrooms, but most of all encourages them go outside and see what they can find. (Ages 8–12)