Review: The Secret Life of Fungi

The Secret Life of Fungi by Aliya Whiteley
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I chose this book because I am interested in Biology in general, and I wanted to learn more about fungi. I should perhaps have realised that a book written by an author who mostly writes fictional works would not be a fact-heavy, scientific one! I unfortunately didn’t learn anything new from this book.

However, although not to my personal taste, this book was not without interest. It is rather like a love story between the author and fungi. It provides a good overview of all the many places and situations fungi turn up in, and conveys the author’s wonder at the vast variety that populate our world.

I personally found it irritating that so much of the book was taken up with stories, personal anecdotes, and imaginings. Some of it seemed tedious and a little repetitive. I felt like I was constantly on the edge of reading something really interesting, but it never quite materialised. Hence, I have given it only two stars, representing my personal enjoyment. However, I think it could be really enjoyable for other readers. It could well serve as a magical and entertaining introduction to the mysterious world of fungi.

I was given a free copy of this book, my opinions are my own.

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