A "dynamic" ( Los Angeles Times ) new understanding of one of life's key questions-from the New York Times bestselling author. This sweeping study of the history of innovation breaks out the seven patterns of innovation like "the slow hunch" and "serendipity." It debunks the myth of the lone genius and presents the real-world dynamics and context that enable innovation. Johnson shows how understanding the roots of innovation can lead to our own creative breakthroughs.