"Imagine: How Creativity Works," by Jonah Lehrer

Jeff Glor talks to Jonah Lehrer about "Imagine: How Creativity Works."

Jeff Glor: What inspired you to write the book?

Jonah Lehrer: I was really inspired by the sheer mystery of creativity. There is something so strange about new ideas - we often can't explain where they come from or how they happen, even when they happen to us. I wanted to understand the creative process, if only so I could squeeze a few more epiphanies out of my brain.

JG: What surprised you the most during the writing process?

JL: I learned lots of unexpected facts while writing the book. But two facts stood out. The first is that, when struggling with a creative problem that seems impossible, we are best off taking a break. Instead of chugging caffeine or staying late at the office, we should find a way to relax. Go for a walk, take a shower, let the mind wander. The answer will only arrive once you stop searching for it. The second surprising fact is that brainstorming - perhaps the most widely implemented creativity technique in the world - doesn't work. It's a really ineffective way of collaborating.

JG: What would you be doing if you weren't a writer?

JL: I tried to be a scientist, but I excelled at experimental failure. Maybe I'd try again.

JG: What else are you reading right now?

JL: Just finished Katherine Boo's magisterial "Beyond the Beautiful Forevers."

JG: What's next for you?

JL: I really don't know. I'm still waiting for my next big idea to arrive. Perhaps I should go take a long shower.

For more on "Imagine" visit the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt website.