Shari Leid Shared a Table with 50 New Friends ForTable for 51:Read an Excerpt! (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Shari Leid Shared a Table With 51 New Friends For Table for 51: Read an Excerpt!.Photo:Wendy K Yalom/Capucia Publishing

Wendy K Yalom/Capucia Publishing

WhenShari Leidembarked on her journey to meet and share a meal with friendly folks in all 50 states across the U.S., she imagined learning about travel, local culture and more — but never thought she’d discover more about her own identity along the way.

In her forthcoming travel memoir, due out Feb. 18 from Capucia Publishing,Table for 51: Lessons Learned from Sharing Meals Across America,Leid embarks on what she calls the50 States Project, in which she shares a meal in each state “with people from all walks of life,” per her publisher.

For Leid, a former attorney who now works as a mindset coach, the intention behind the journey was to “bring people together over a meal in every state, embracing the magic of human connection in its rawest, most heartfelt form.” But her journey across all 50 states quickly — and repeatedly — took on new meaning, teaching her how to find common ground over a shared meal.

“From city diners to rural cafes, Shari connects with individuals from vastly different backgrounds, showing us how simply ‘breaking bread’ can bridge divides,” according to the book’s description.

According to Leid, her book will leaves readers with a question: “What connections are waiting at the tables we have yet to sit at?”

“This isn’t just a story about travel; it’s an exploration of courage, resilience and finding unity through shared moments,” her publisher promises.

Below, check out an excerpt from the book, shared exclusively with PEOPLE.

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Dear Reader,

Much like the roads I’ve traveled.

Through most of my 53rd year, in 2023, I turned this dream into reality. By the time my 54th birthday rolled around in December, I found myself filing for divorce. Now, finishing up this manuscript in August 2024, riding the rollercoaster of divorce, I’ve woven in my personal diary entries, pouring my heart and soul into these pages.

It’s been one heck of a ride. With all the lessons learned and strength gained, I’m excited for whatever comes next — even if I’m not quite sure what that is yet. Thanks for taking this wild, imperfectly perfect journey with me.

With all my heart,

Shari

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Shari in Boston, Mass.Courtesy of Shari Leid

Courtesy of Shari Leid

Table 46

Lunch at Cheers on Beacon Street

Boston, Mass.

Tammy

Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023 — 11 a.m. EST

Tammy is 65 years old. She and her husband are Jewish, married for 33 years. She is a mother to an adult daughter. Born and raised on Long Island, N.Y, she moved to Massachusetts for college, and has lived in the state ever since—calling Boston home for most of her adult life.

Shari Leid and Norm.Courtesy of Shari Leid

We also discussed her family, including her husband’s work with the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst, Mass. This cultural institution is dedicated to preserving Yiddish books and the culture and history they represent. Our conversation, which touched on family history, world history and current events, provided essential nourishment for my mind.

Before we wrapped up our conversation, Tammy reminded me: “We all put our pants on one leg at a time,” underscoring both the simplicity and depth of our shared experiences.

Driving from Boston to Rhode Island, country artistTim McGraw’sHumble and Kindplayed on the radio — as if the Universe was nodding to our earlier discussion. The song’s message about pride, humility and helping others brought back Tammy’s words about our common humanity and the small acts that connect us all.

Always, be humble and kind.

Table for 51: Lessons Learned from Sharing Meals Across Americahits shelves Feb. 18 and is available for preorder now, wherever books are sold.

source: people.com