Mike Snyder, a passionate Ozarkian native, delved into the world of fungi in 2010, becoming an esteemed expert on the diverse mushroom species of his homeland. Actively involved with the Missouri Mycological Society, he serves on the Board of Directors, spearheading numerous committees and projects. Snyder, residing in a straw bale house with his family near Edgar Springs, MO, cultivates medicinal herbs, vegetables, flowers, and mushrooms on their small homestead. He manages a thriving business, Wild Wise Botanicals, offering mushroom-centric learning experiences including classes, forays, and events. Explore more at wildwisebotanicals.com! Zoologist Jim Kavanagh has made a career out of introducing novices to plants, animals, the sciences and world cultures. In addition to creating over 500 simplified nature guides, he has also authored guides to languages, cities and outdoor skills. An avid traveler and backpacker, Kavanagh's path has taken him around the world to many remote destinations including the upper Amazon, Africa, Australia, and the Arctic Circle (and this is just the As).

He is also the author of a series of state-specific guides to common species and natural attractions and a children's book on evolution.