The Geography of Genius: A Search for the World’s Most Creative Places, from Ancient Athens to Silicon Valley

In an ambitious attempt to determine the genesis of genius and the conception of creativity, former NPR correspondent Weiner (The Geography of Bliss) travels to history’s great hot spots of innovation. As he walks the hallowed streets of Athens, Calcutta, Edinburgh, Hangzhou, Silicon Valley, and other storied locales, he investigates the elements and factors that came together to turn these places into centers of cultural and technological advancement. In the audio edition, Weiner reads with a clear and articulate voice while also communicating the fun and amusement of his travels. He is most entertaining when recalling the people encounter amid his research. These interactions provide clear cut opportunities to change pace and pitch, which helps not only to clarify who is speaking but also add texture to the performance. Other times, during long bouts of straight prose, his straight forward narration does not keep the listener fully attuned. A Simon & Schuster hardcover. (Jan.)