The Creative Curve

How to Develop the Right Idea, at the Right Time

By: Allen Gannett

Narrated by: Allen Gannett

Length: 7 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

Big data entrepreneur Allen Gannett overturns the mythology around creative genius and reveals the science and secrets behind achieving breakout commercial success in any field.

We have been spoon-fed the notion that creativity is the province of genius - of those favored, brilliant few whose moments of insight arrive in unpredictable flashes of divine inspiration. And if we are not geniuses, we might as well pack it in and give up. Either we have that gift, or we don’t. But Allen shows that simply isn’t true. Recent research has shown that there is a predictable science behind achieving commercial success in any creative endeavor, from writing a popular novel to starting up a successful company to creating an effective marketing campaign.

As the world’s most creative people have discovered, we are enticed by the novel and the familiar. By understanding the mechanics of what Gannett calls “the creative curve” - the point of optimal tension between the novel and the familiar - everyone can better engineer mainstream success.

In a thoroughly entertaining book that describes the stories and insights of everyone from the Broadway team behind Dear Evan Hansen to the founder of Reddit, from the chief content officer of Netflix to Michelin star chefs, Gannett reveals the four laws of creative success and identifies the common patterns behind their achievements.

©2018 Allen Gannett (P)2018 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

"Gannett offers the ideal balance of valuable instruction, accessible writing, and refreshing stories, providing tangible evidence that the creative process he advocates actually works for businesspeople." (Publishers Weekly)

"A juicy, rollicking tour along the path toward creativity. The good news is that there is no writer's block, and if you want it badly enough, creativity awaits." (Seth Godin, author of Linchpin)

“To anyone who thinks they are uninspired, stifled, or creatively infertile...this book is for you. Allen Gannett shows that you aren't truly any of those things. You're just doing it wrong.” (Ann Handley, best-selling author of Everybody Writes)

Informational and fun read

The Creative Curve is an inspiring book that digs deep into patterns of creative genius and explains how everyone can harness this power. Contains insights from multiple successful and accomplished industry leaders. Highly recommend this book!

This book is a pleasure to read and listen to....

There is a flow to the way language is used by Allen Gannett which makes his writing very enjoyable to read and/or listen to... I very much liked the way he connects all the dots on the topic of creativity...it is a very informative and enjoyable book.

thoroughly enjoyed the information and presentatio

the information was well thought out and organized. The author has some great ideas and I know they will help me as I continue in my career. I like the fact that the author read the material because his understanding allowed the presentation to flow very nicely.

Tap into your creative prowess!

The Creative Curve is one of the best books I’ve read this year. Allen does a fantastic job of helping you tap into your creative ability. Creativity is not confined to just a few people. Everyone has the ability to produce remarkable thoughts, insights, and works of art. It depends on how you view creativity and the role it plays in your life. This book will show you the way to your next great idea, passion, or purpose in life.

this dude doesn't kno what's a meme.

great listen but the fact that this guy doesn't know the true meaning of memes. fake news I say. false profets can not be raised as a new age profet. sickening. I was going to write a good review, but am I gunna!?..

enjoyably different perspective on creativity

couldn't stop listening. Very different from what I expected. Breaking down the idea that creativity comes from lightning bolt inspiration is something you likely haven't heard before.

Good book but!

Couldn't get over the author's voice!! Word of advice, your book is good but doesn't mean that your voice is suitable for audiobooks!

Good information and inspiring

I had a pretty good time with this book, but I struggled with the narration of it. While it's cool to have the author of the book read it, I found his voice a little harsh on the ears and distracting.
Overall, the content was great! As an aspiring creative, I can reccomend this book as a good read.

Great message for all the creators in hiding

I love the way Alan Gannet has taken the book. By undergoing the process of doing arduous research to support his points, Alan has lived by what he narrates in the book. Creativity can be achieved by putting adequate effort and by adding novelty to already familiar concept. Thank you Allen for the motivation.

worth reading from halfway

this book really starts from chapter 6... but once it gets into the meat, it's really good