In what started as a graduate thesis project, Bernsten, took a 23,000-mile journey through all 50 states to answer that question, ultimately documenting his experience in 50 States of Mind: A Journey to Rediscover American Democracy. Bernsten’s book is a work of narrative travel non-fiction 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.
