The Geography of Genius by Eric Weiner

This thoroughly engrossing book asks the question “Why do some places become hot spots for genius?” Eric Weiner travels to places of genius from ancient Athens to Renaissance Florence to present-day Silicon Valley. He finds the similarities in those places that created huge leaps in culture, innovation, and ideas. Part history, part travelogue, The Geography of Genius, is well-researched and sublimely written. Mr. Weiner is a very talented, descriptive writer. He makes you feel connected to the place he’s describing and like you want to go there to see exactly what he sees.