Andrew Tarvin

A brilliant, original exploration of how the CBD revolution is going to transform Americans’ lives.

We are an anxious and uptight nation on the brink, divided by a broken political system and a president who is pushing us over the edge. Many of us are agitated about terrorism, guns, religious fundamentalism, and refugees. With only 5% of the global population, we consume 80% of the world’s prescription opioids, antidepressants, and amphetamines―addictive drugs prescribed by medical doctors and known to cause paranoia, homicidal tendencies, and psychosis. Even those who aren’t prescribed these medicines are accessing them―think kids using their parents’ medication―with disastrous results. Those who can’t access opiates through legal means are finding them on the street, resulting in an opioid crisis with overdoses on the rise. The United States has the highest level of suicide in the world. We’re stressed, both mentally and physically. We’re a nation in pain.

How do we deal with this pervasive sickness? CBD (cannabidiol), perhaps the most profound plant medicine ever discovered. Extensive research over the last decade shows that this miracle molecule of the cannabis plant helps with countless medical conditions like nothing we’ve seen before (and no, it can’t get you high). CBD has a proven effect on everything from chronic pain and epilepsy to anxiety and depression. In this provocative book, Klee Irwin makes a compelling case that we should stop being afraid to try this plant medicine. CBD could be the answer so many Americans are seeking.

At the age of 31, Andrew Tarvin made the very practical decision to rid himself of most of his belongings, leave his Midtown apartment in NYC, and travel the country out of two carry-on bags. In 12 months, he traveled 92,358 miles, did 215 events, and spoke or performed in all 50 states (yes, even Wyoming).

Along the way, he collected 50 stories from 50 states. Stories of adventure, like fending off a bear in Alaska, stories of deliciousness, like eating a Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo Burrito in Montana, and stories of people, like meeting his newest fan in Pringle, South Dakota, population: 112.

Through his journey, he discovered that, despite what we may see on the news or read on the internet, there is one thing that unites all Americans: laughter. As he traveled around the country, he found connection through comedy and realized we are all more alike than we are different, no matter what state we call home.

PRAISE FOR THE UNITED STATES OF LAUGHTER

"In this amazing, amusing book, Andrew Tarvin goes looking for laughs in all the right places, specifically every one of these now not so United States. But through his journey, he shares how we are still a country bound together by people who can take a joke as well as make one, including, of course, our comedic, peripatetic author who does so from sea to shining sea and also in New Jersey."
 -Bob Mankoff, Cartoon & Humor Editor at Esquire

"The world beyond your hometown doorstep is often a hilarious and amazing place. This book will take you there. Read it, laugh out load, be inspired and get to know your hilarious guide, Andrew Tarvin (now known in some states as Drupac), as he takes you on a journey to unite America in copious amounts of comedy and laughter. You'll be glad you did."
-David Nihill, Author of Do You Talk Funny

"These side-splitting stories capture the life of a traveler perfectly. From the moments that go so right to the experiences that go so very wrong, The United States of Laughter is both ridiculous and insightful. And, if you're like me, it will have you laughing in your middle seat while on your flight from Prague to JFK."
-Whitney Tressel, fellow nomad and National Geographic Photography Trip Leader