The book is a house of wonders’
The New York Times
Steven Johnson is the Darwin of technology’
Walter Issacson, author of Steve Jobs
What connects Paleolithic bone flutes to the invention of computer software? Or the Murex sea snail to the death of the great American city? How does the bag of crisps you hold in your hand help tell the story of humanity itself?
In Wonderland, his brilliant work on the history of innovation, international bestseller Steven Johnson argues that the pursuit of novelty and wonder has always been a powerful driver of world-shaping technological change. He finds that throughout history, the cutting edge of innovation lies wherever people are working the hardest to keep themselves and others amused.
Johnson’s storytelling is just as delightful as the inventions he describes, full of surprising stops along the journey from simple concepts to complex modern systems. He introduces us to the colourful innovators of leisure: the explorers, proprietors, showmen, and artists who changed the trajectory of history with their luxurious wares, exotic meals, taverns, gambling tables, and magic shows.
Johnson compellingly argues that observers of technological and social trends should be looking for clues in novel amusements. You’ll find the future wherever people are having the most fun.
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Wonderland brims with these sorts of tidbits, memorable moments, and bits of information that light up the mind.
The Boston Globe
In this charming study, Johnson (How We Got to Now) examines how the seemingly frivolous and unproductive aspects of society — the things people do for fun, pleasure, and entertainment — have influenced, defined, and created the world In an entertaining and accessible style, he takes tangents that arrive at sometimes startling conclusions, like a magician practicing misdirection.
Publishers Weekly (starred)
Johnson’s writing derives its appeal from his ability to illuminate complex ideas in unpretentious language...Johnson’s prose is nimble, his knowledge impressive...Wonderland is original and fun.
The San Francisco Chronicle
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