50 States of Mind: A Journey to Rediscover American Democracy

by Ryan Bernsten

Overview

Is America as divided as it seems? Oxford University graduate student Ryan Bernsten takes a 23,000-mile journey through all 50 states of his home country to answer that question. 50 States of Mind: A Journey to Rediscover American Democracy is a work of travel nonfiction in the style of Alexis de Tocqueville that takes readers on a long and winding journey through all 50 states to explore the complexities of today's America. Leading with the desire to listen and overcome our preconceived notions, 50 States of Mind asks how we can infuse humanity and nuance back into political conversations to keep our democracy strong. The companion podcast "50 States of Mind," featured in Condé Nast Traveler, showcases live interviews from the journey and is available on all podcast platforms.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781739310769
Publisher:	Bite-Sized Books Limited
Publication date:	06/20/2023
Pages:	252
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.69(d)

About the Author

Ryan Bernsten is a graduate of Northwestern University and Oxford University's Creative Writing Master's program. He has written for The Oxford Political Review, USA Today, The Infatuation, and The Trevor Project, where he currently serves as Senior Managing Editor. Ryan is an award-winning playwright whose plays have been performed across the US and UK.

Editorial Reviews

In 50 States of Mind, Ryan Bernsten gives us a window into our vast complexity, how we are different and yet alike. In his journey through all 50 states, Bernsten talked to people from all walks of life and discovered a basic decency and love of country that prevailed in cities and towns across the nation. At a time of depressing headlines and news stories, 50 States of Mind provides a welcome antidote and restores hope that our country will be all right in the end.

Governor Christine Todd Whitman

Soulful, refreshing, and surprisingly funny, 50 States of Mind cuts through the divisive noise of the political moment. By approaching those he meets with humility and a commitment to listening, Ryan creates a portrait of the country which shows that, at the end of the day, most Americans have the same goals: strong communities and hope for the future.

Former Missouri Secretary of State, U.S. Senate candidate, host of Majority 54 Podcast - Jason Kander

Clear-eyed, searching, and hopeful, 50 States of Mind reminds us that democracy is not a perpetual motion machine. Without the kind of open-hearted curiosity that fueled Ryan Bernsten's powerfully moving cross-country journey, this all falls apart. With it, America has a future.

Author of Real Queer America: LGBT Stories from Red States - Samantha Allen