When it comes to bad news, weve never had it so good.Laurence Shorter is feeling anxious. Every time he opens a newspaper or turns on the radio he finds another reason to be tearful. Its time to make a change. Its time to be optimistic!His plan is simple: 1. Learn how to jump out of bed in the morning. 2. Secure personal happiness. 3. Save the world.The Optimist charts Shorters ambitious, year-long, international quest to seek out the worlds most positive thinkers, including Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Jung Chang, Matthieu Ricard, Californias renowned Surfing Rabbi, and Bill Clinton. But optimism doesnt come easy, and Shorters resolve is tested at every corner: by a flagging career, a troubled love affair, and his ever-pessimistic dad.The Optimist is a hilarious and ultimately life-affirming stand against the grind of everyday strife, packed with reasons to be cheerful.From the Hardcover edition.