Underground Lovers

Underground Lovers
Encounters with Fungi
By Alison Pouliot

A captivating journey into the hidden world beneath our feet—where fungi quietly shape life on Earth.

In Underground Lovers, ecologist, environmental photographer, and fungi specialist Alison Pouliot takes readers on a fascinating exploration of one of nature's most overlooked kingdoms. Blending science, storytelling, and personal observation, she reveals the extraordinary roles fungi play in sustaining ecosystems, connecting species, and maintaining the health of our planet.

Travelling from Australian forests and deserts to the icy landscapes of Iceland, Pouliot introduces readers to an astonishing diversity of fungal life. Along the way, she uncovers the hidden networks that support forests, assist plants, recycle nutrients, and contribute to resilience in the face of environmental change.

Written with curiosity, wonder, and deep ecological insight, this book invites us to look beyond what is immediately visible and discover the remarkable relationships that exist beneath the surface.

Inside this book:

• Fascinating insights into the ecological importance of fungi
• Stories of encounters with unique species, including ghost fungi and lobster mushrooms
• Exploration of fungi's role in forests, nutrient cycling, fire recovery, and climate systems
• Reflections on interconnection, biodiversity, and humanity's place within nature
• A rich blend of science, field observation, photography, and personal narrative

Why readers value this book:

• Combines engaging storytelling with accessible scientific insight
• Expands understanding of the hidden networks that sustain life
• Inspires deeper ecological awareness and appreciation for biodiversity
• Beautifully written, immersive, and thought-provoking
• Appeals to nature lovers, gardeners, environmentalists, and curious readers alike

More than a book about mushrooms and fungi, Underground Lovers is an invitation to see the natural world through a new lens—one that recognises connection, cooperation, and the intricate relationships that support life.

Intriguing, informative, and quietly transformative, this book reveals the extraordinary intelligence and beauty of the living world beneath our feet.

Book Details

• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 304
• Language: English
• ISBN-13: 9781742236827
• Dimensions: 15.3 x 23.4 x 2.3 cm (approx.)
• Publisher: NewSouth Publishing