Edison's Ghosts: The Untold Weirdness of History’s Greatest Geniuses by Katie Spalding

​I'm somewhat particular about my nonfiction reads. I look for that perfect combination of interesting and exciting; the perfect blend of fascinating facts and a strong narrative voice. Funny helps too.
With this book, Spalding had exceeded expectations on every single account. And as far as funny goes, well...she simply knocked it out of the ballpark.
I've read books designated as humorous and seen standup less funny that this book. This book is freaking hilarious.
And it should be, really, because it's subject—well, subjects—is a variable barrel of laughs.
Long lauded as the greatest minds not just of their time but of all time, the geniuses of this book were totally and completely weird when it came to their personal lives. From quirky passions to flat-out dangerous pursuits, from randomly pedestrian foibles to outlandish claims, from character flaws to "can I get a straitjacket here?", chapter by chapter this book will show you how being smart doesn't always equate with...you know, being smart. Not to mention demonstrate the complete absence of any parallels between being good at academic pursuits and being good at life.
It's weirdly reassuring in a way.
It's certainly wildly entertaining to read about. Absolutely one of the best nonfiction (or any) books I've read in some time. Loved it. Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.