Meet the Author

Eric Weiner, NPR Correspondent
Thursday, March 27th at 7 p.m.

NPR Correspondent Eric Weiner

Eric Weiner, a long-time correspondent for National Public Radio (NPR) and author of The New York Times bestselling book The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Places in the World, will be at Darien Library on Thursday, March 27 at 7 p.m.

Weiner began his yearlong quest for the world’s happiest places in Rotterdam, the Netherlands at the World Database of Happiness, where terms such as “happiness researcher” and “science of happiness” are commonplace. During his search, the veteran foreign correspondent traveled to Iceland, Qatar, Great Britain, Switzerland, Thailand and India.

In describing his book, Weiner wrote: “Place. That is what The Geography of Bliss is about. How place – in every aspect of the word – shapes us, defines us. Change your place, I believe, and you can change your life.”

His humorous book, which includes chapters with titles such as, “Bhutan – Happiness is Policy,” “Moldova – Happiness is Somewhere Else,” and “America – Happiness is Home,” is unlike the typical travelogue or guide book. His observations of different cultures and societies and his encounters and relationships with those he met during his travels provide for an interesting, different, and sometimes very funny read. Despite its humor, the book is also surprisingly insightful.

“Grouchy or not, Weiner displays an openness to other cultures and a huge sense of humor in this absorbing, funny, and thoughtful look at notions of bliss.” – Booklist

“In the end, Weiner’s travel tales – eating rotten shark meat in Iceland, smoking hashish in Rotterdam, trying to meditate at an Indian ashram – provide great happiness for his readers.” – Publishers Weekly (Starred review)
                                   
Weiner, a former reporter for The New York Times, has served as a correspondent with NPR since 1992, with postings in New Delhi, Jerusalem, and Tokyo. He’s also reported for NPR in New York, Miami, and, currently, Washington D.C.

A book signing will follow the presentation. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and refreshments will be served.

This program is funded by contributions made to the Annual Campaign.