Leonardo da Vinci by Walter Isaacson


I recently read Walter Isaacson's bio on Leonardo da Vinci. In true Isaacson form, it's a detailed and artfully written look at one of the world's great polymaths. Famous for his art, the number of subjects da Vinci developed mastery in, including engineering, biology and physiology, is staggering by any standard. What struck me the most was the intense curiosity that drove him to develop his understandings, as opposed to any natural gifts. Einstein, another subject of Isaacson, famously said, "I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious." This certainly seems true for da Vinci. A solid read, I highly recommend the physical text as the imagery and graphics in the book are amazing.

Bonus: On the subject of curiosity, this podcast with Shane Parrish and Warren Berger, author of A Most Beautiful Question explores the subject of curiosity, asking questions and why we seem to be conditioned to not ask good questions. 


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