"Here is the scientific proof for why 'teaching to the test' for standardized testing is hurting our students and jeopardizing our future - and what can be done about it. Creativity is a necessity not a luxury, says Andreas Wagner. In a tour of genetics, scientific breakthroughs and artistic peaks, he draws parallels to the human processes that generate leaps of progress: analogy-making and metaphor, among others. He makes the definitive case for embedding creative thinking in the classroom, if we are to see the survival of the fittest." (Kerry Ruef, founder of The Private Eye Project)

"Andreas Wagner has again cut through to the heart of a vital question. The notion that genomes are set up to explore, through trial and error, in the hope of leaping across the adaptive landscape to new peaks is a fresh concept. Wagner draws out fascinating parallels with the way innovation works in human society." (Matt Ridley, author of The Evolution of Everything and How Innovation Works)

"From molecules to moths to mountains, Andreas Wagner's Life Finds a Way weaves a coherent and compelling narrative about how nature achieves creativity. Not only that, we also learn how to cultivate creativity in our own lives, and - perhaps more importantly - how to avoid smothering it with good intentions." (George Dyson, author of Darwin Among the Machines)