The Riddle: Where Ideas Come From and How to Have Better Ones

by Andrew Razeghi

While organizations claim to value creativity, they are often at a loss when attempting to conjure up novel ideas, particularly in a world where technology has made information readily available to everyone. As a result, leaders ask, "Where will the next big idea come from?" In response, they allocate significant resources for innovation; however the source of creative inspiration has remained a mystery. Science has shown that it's possible to create conditions under which the mind is more prepared to have insights, or "a-ha! moments." In this fascinating book, Andrew Razeghi examines the precursors to creative insight and offers clear-cut methods for making "Eureka moments" routine practice rather than lucky accidents. Combining the latest scientific research, interviews with current innovators, and studies of history’s most creative minds, he dissects the creative process and presents a practical approach for inspiring innovation.

Genres: Business, Nonfiction, Self Help, Psychology

256 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2007

Reviews

[Andy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty good factoids (Edison did not invent the light bulb.) and concept lessons of practical innovation (e.g. Shimano going around bicycle industry to ask NON-cyclists why they do NOT ride bikes, instead of asking racers what they want from bikes).

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was fine. I appreciated the way Razeghi showed that being creative is not something that we are born with or is something random that we luck into but something we can structure and create systems for improvement.

I thought the examples he gave about people we think of as creative like Thomas Edison and learning that his greatest strength was being able to bring ideas from multiple people together and integrate them to create something new. The one thing I plan on trying is his idea of writing down a problem in question format, leaving it unanswered, thinking about it for a minute or two, going to sleep, and then seeing what ideas come to the surface in the morning.

Overall, I liked the concept of re-framing thinking creatively to solving problems. I try to read a few business books every year for professional development but am more than happy to dive back into the world of fiction and tackle my fun summer reading list.

[Anurag Kesarwani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book........must read for those who think they are not creative or believe that right brainers are more creative than right brainers.
Highly scientific language used but at the same time the concepts were easy to understand.
A great value addition!!

[John William · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Riddle: Where Ideas Come From and How to Have Better Ones is a thoughtful and engaging exploration of creativity that blends science, storytelling, and practical insight. The book unpacks the mystery of where ideas originate, showing how they are shaped not by sudden flashes of genius alone but through connections, curiosity, and deliberate practice. Much like understanding bugtong meaning where riddles invite us to think deeper and make unexpected connections the book demonstrates how innovative ideas often emerge from playful exploration and perspective shifts. What makes it compelling is the balance between research-driven explanations and accessible anecdotes, making complex concepts easy to grasp. Rather than offering generic motivational advice, it provides readers with concrete strategies to cultivate more original thinking in their personal and professional lives. At its core, the book reframes creativity as a skill to be nurtured rather than a talent bestowed upon a lucky few, making it an inspiring and useful guide for anyone looking to generate stronger, more impactful ideas.

[Annabelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

AWESOME. Honestly belive this is one of the 10 best books I have ever read. I am ordering one for both my children. There is a piece of wisdom on everysecond page. A must read for those that make their living from ideas.
It is a keeper.

[Lori Grant · Rating 4 out of 5]

A should-read book on creative frameworks in self development for knowledge workers, managers, executives, and entrepreneurs.