Gelb's work definitely contains some valuable "self-help" nuggets that can be applied to general problem-solving. One such nugget involves Edison's use of mind-maps that help individuals physically "chart" strategies for tackling problems. The book focuses on how "failure" is often critical to future success and how optimism can shape results. It also explores some of Edison's well-known mantras (example: make everything as simple as possible -- but no any simpler). In all candor, some of the book was a bit dry and seemed unnecessarily redundant in a few spots -- and I'm a big fan of business books. But overall, I'm glad I took the time to read it. ( )

Innovate Like Edison
I am not normally very interested in self-help/business books, but someone gave me this book so I decided to give it a try. I’m glad I did because it gave me a few things to think about and work on.
Basically Innovate Like Edison is about how to use creative problem solving in today’s business world to get ahead. One of the most interesting points the book covered is that people who are optimistic are generally more successful then people who are pessimistic. It goes into some detail as to why this is and explains how you can be or act more optimistic. I found most of the ideas in this book to be simple, straight-forward, and logical. I also enjoyed the interesting bits of Edison’s history, he was truly an extraordinary man!
I listened to this book on audio. The audio version allowed me to take in the material in a less labor intensive way. Sometimes listening to a book like this makes it easier to filter out the ideas that interest me without getting too hung up on the ideas that are less applicable to my situation. I would definitely recommend this book as a great way to get a fresh perspective on how to be more creative in a more productive way at work. ( )

Creative ability in technology; Technological innovations; Thomas A. Edison