Fungi are one thing I both don't really understand and find extremely fascinating. If anyone has recommendations for comprehensive books or other materials for laymen I'd be grateful.
If you want to get into mushroom foraging then the best way to learn (in addition to joining your local mycology club) is by getting some of the picture books, e.g. Mushrooming Without Fear and Mushrooming With Confidence. (Field guides aren't good for beginners, even the simplified ones.) If you're in the northeast, Lawrence Millman's book Fantastic Fungi of New England is also great.