Prose

The latest novel by the acclaimed Czech writer Miloš Urban playfully deals with the traditional Czech pasttime – picking mushrooms. A story about a young editor Gregor Marty who works in publishing unfolds. Marty encounters a mysterious drug, fights with it and almost wins. In return, he gains youth, beauty and erotic charm, but also acquires an agonising dependence on this special delicacy. He is forced to make a decision whether to continue this lethal relationship or attempt to return to his everyday life.

In Czech woods an uncanny mushroom called Boletus arcanus starts to grow. It fulfills the wishes of anyone who manages to find it. It is crucial, however, to think about what we really want from those beautiful mushrooms and whether it’s just not better to leave them be…

The book features 3D illustrations courtesy of Pavel Růt and also encompasses a 3D book-mark.