How can a 20-year-old man who is blind, autistic and still believes in Santa Claus play the most sophisticated improvisational jazz piano? How can a child who appears withdrawn and mentally disabled gaze at a building for only a minute then draw an exact reproduction on paper? Producer Stephen Smith explores the mysterious powers of savants — people with profound mental disabilities who develop an island of genius in music, mathematics or art. Research on Savant Syndrome is producing new insights on how the human brain works, and how personal intelligence can outwit the IQ test.

The Soundprint documentary series features the best work of top radio producers. The award winning documentaries are renowned for drawing the listener into the story with compelling interviews, authentic voices and rich sound. From memoirs to science, health and popular culture, Soundprint creates a powerful experience the listener will not soon forget. Islands of Genius was produced with support from the National Science Foundation. Here are some related Soundprint documentaries:

Educating Emily Produced by: Jean Snedegar

Thinking About Thinking Parts 1 and 2 Produced by: Adi Gevins

Touchstones of Reality Produced by: Jean Snedegar

Soundprint Executive Producer: Moira Rankin

Technical Director: Anna Maria de Freitas

Science Editor: Ann Finkbeiner

Audio Engineer: Robin Wise

Production Assistant: Francesca Raimond