Mad Like Tesla

Nikola Tesla (1856-1943) was way ahead of his time. Now widely acknowledged as the father of modern electricity, while he lived the eccentric man was generally thought of as a mad scientist. Thomas Edison calledTesla'salternating current induction motor "a waste of time" and campaigned againstit, as it threatened the success of one of his own lucrative inventions.In addition to being a technological visionary, Tesla was also an environmentalist,who understood the long-term implications of burning fossil fuels-anissue we face today.

In MAD LIKE TESLA,Toronto Star energy reporter and clean technology columnist Tyler Hamilton profiles modern companies and individuals who he believes have reason to identify with Tesla. Hamilton explores how these innovative thinkers are forging ahead with their own "crazy" ideas, in spite of how easily society dismisses their potentially game-changing efforts.

The author links these modern visionaries back to Nikola Tesla, to remind us that the obstacles to energy innovations that existed 100 years ago remain in the 21st century. A thoroughly engrossing, fascinating read for anyone interested in science, history, and the environment.

“A brilliantly written page-turner about the ‘mad’ inventors and entrepreneurs who will become modern day heroes if their efforts can produce energy without changing the earth’s climate.”
— Jim Hoggan, author of Climate Cover Up and chair of the David Suzuki Foundation

“Hamilton enables us to join the clean energy optimist’s club by shining a bright light on humanity’s amazing capacity for imagination and invention. Well written, compelling, and inspiring.”
— Nicholas Parker, co-founder and chairman, Cleantech Group LLC

“Superb! A fun, fast-paced, and positive read.”
— Greg Kiessling, co-founder and executive chairman of Bullfrog Power

“Tyler Hamilton examines the colourful, oddball inventors who are defying conventional wisdom to create a clean energy future. In doing so, however, this book is more than just a look at a handful of eccentric innovators; it is more importantly a timely tribute to the people who may be our best and last defence against run-away climate change.”
— Andrew Heintzman, CEO of Investeco and author of The New Entrepreneurs