THE FUNGUS AMONG US - Rhyming illustrated picture book for young mushroom spotters and fungi hunters. : Educational story about the world of mycelium and ... foraging.
#1 in The Fungus Among Us for Kids Series
What’s inside...
This charming rhyming book titled 'The Fungus Among Us' by Jessica Dawn Birks, invites readers on a journey through forests and moors to learn about mycelium, the underground network essential for our ecosystem. It explores various mushrooms like the oyster mushroom and the lion's mane, offering a delightful introduction to foraging and the diversity of mushrooms. The book features whimsical illustrations and engaging rhymes, making it an ideal read for both seasoned foragers and beginners. It is designed to be dyslexic-friendly and is available in paperback and Kindle editions. The author offers special discounts for bulk purchases for educational and promotional purposes.
Discussion points
What do you think mushrooms need to grow, and why are they important to the forest?
Can you describe how the mushrooms in the book looked different from each other?
Why do you think the author chose to make the story rhyme? How did it make you feel?
What was your favorite part of the mushroom adventure and why?
If you could meet one of the mushroom characters from the book, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe the illustrations and relate them to the story to enhance their understanding and retention.
Use the rhyming aspect of the book to discuss phonics and word patterns with your child, which can help in developing their reading skills.
Relate the information about mushrooms and mycelium in the book to everyday life by discussing any mushrooms you see during walks or in your own backyard.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite mushroom from the book and describe what makes it unique, reinforcing their comprehension and creative expression.
Promote empathy by asking how they think the mushrooms felt during various scenarios in the book, fostering emotional intelligence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation for nature
Explanation: The book teaches children about the diverse and fascinating world of fungi, encouraging curiosity and respect for the environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn to observe and appreciate the natural world around them, making them more conscientious and environmentally aware individuals.
Example Lesson: Importance of observation
Explanation: As young readers follow the journey of mushroom spotting, they learn to pay attention to small details and differences in the mushrooms they find.
Real-World Application: This skill translates to enhanced attention to detail in other areas of their lives, such as academics or social interactions.
Example Lesson: Scientific curiosity
Explanation: The story introduces basic concepts of mycology, sparking interest in biology and the science of organisms.
Real-World Application: Encouraging scientific interest from an early age can lead to a lifelong passion for learning and possibly a career in the sciences.
Example Lesson: Safety and responsibility
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of not picking or consuming wild mushrooms without proper knowledge, teaching children to be cautious and responsible.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of safety and making informed decisions in all aspects of life.