Today I do not like mushrooms. Yesterday I was not crazy about them. But ask me tomorrow and I might have changed my mind. You see, mushrooms are one of those foods that I must be in the mood for. But our hero in Mason Goes Mushrooming (by the way, his name is Mason), loves mushrooms year around. And there is nothing wrong with that. And if you are like Mason, you should read Melany Kahn’s picture book and learn about the different mushrooms and when you should/can pick them for a treat.
While there is more to what is going on, that is the basis of the book. Ellen Korbonski adds to the fun with their soft illustrations. They are detailed, colorful and even sweet, allowing the art to support and tell the story simultaneously. We follow the wonders of nature and the wonders of mushrooms, because even if you do not like to eat them, they really are fascinating in a way you might not expect.
Each season Mason can mushroom hunt (with his trusty basket or bucket hat) we see the nature about him, the safe way to gather and much more. There also are fun interactions with his family and a recipe for the dish made in that chapter included. The picture book is longer and packed with goodies of all kinds. This allows the book to grow with your child.
The publisher description says Kahn “fills a gap on the mycology shelves for children.” I am not sure if it was actually needed or not, but at the very least, we now have one and it is a delightful story for older children into nature or who enjoy a different kind of story. Both adults and children can enjoy.
