All That the Rain Promises and More - by David Arora

"All That the Rain Promises and More: A Hip Pocket Guide to Western Mushrooms" by David Arora - the iconic compact field guide to Western North American wild mushrooms. The book has become a beloved classic among Western mushroom foragers for combining serious mycological content with David Arora's characteristically irreverent personality.

About David Arora

David Arora is one of the most influential modern American mycologists and the author of "Mushrooms Demystified" (the more comprehensive 1986 reference). "All That the Rain Promises and More" (1991) was designed as the compact field guide companion - small enough to carry in a pocket while foraging, but with substantial enough content to provide reliable identification guidance. Arora's writing style is irreverent and personality-rich, distinguishing the book from drier scientific field guides.

Key Facts

Title

All That the Rain Promises and More: A Hip Pocket Guide to Western Mushrooms

Author

David Arora

First published

1991

Format

Compact field guide (pocket-sized)

Geographic focus

Western North American mushrooms (particularly Pacific Northwest)

Companion to

"Mushrooms Demystified" (Arora's more comprehensive reference)

What's in the Book?

The book covers 200+ Western North American mushroom species with: identification photos (often showing the mushroom in habitat); identification keys; edibility information (including specific cautions for toxic look-alikes); cultural and historical context; characteristic irreverent personal commentary from Arora. The book is specifically designed for field use - small format, durable binding, color photos throughout.

Important: Wild Mushroom Safety

Wild mushroom foraging carries significant risks. Several mushroom species are deadly poisonous, and some have look-alikes that can fool even experienced foragers. Never consume a wild mushroom unless 100% certain of identification. Use multiple references, learn from experienced foragers, and start with easily-identified species (like morels or chanterelles) before attempting more challenging identifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is David Arora?
One of the most influential modern American mycologists; author of "Mushrooms Demystified" (the comprehensive reference) and this compact field guide.

Where does it focus geographically?
Western North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest.

How does it differ from "Mushrooms Demystified"?
Compact pocket-format for field use; "Mushrooms Demystified" is the comprehensive reference for at-home identification.

Is it safe for beginners?
The book is well-suited for beginners but wild mushroom foraging always carries risks. Start with easily-identified species; use multiple references; learn from experienced foragers.

How many species does it cover?
200+ Western North American species.

What's Arora's writing style?
Irreverent and personality-rich, distinguishing it from drier scientific field guides.