In this dazzling, surprising and always entertaining book, bestselling author Andrew Leigh tells the story of innovation.

We rarely stop to think about the fact that someone had to invent nails and wheelbarrows; alphabets and books; linear perspective and oil painting; glass windows and windscreen wipers; hypodermic syringes and zippers; tin cans and synthetic dyes. From tools and technologies to fresh approaches in art and architecture, innovation surrounds us.

Leigh shows that three key elements lie behind most successful innovation: tinkering, teams and trade. He looks as why innovation flourishes more in some places and times than others. He considers the opponents of innovation and why they oppose it, and goes beyond mere technological innovation to include scientific concepts and creative breakthroughs.

A brilliant sequel to the international bestseller The Shortest History of Economics.