PRESS RELEASE: Fan Quits Job to Follow Rock Band Pearl Jam – Finds a Family

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LONDON, UK (November 15, 2010) – What is going on tour like for a rock star? Author Jason Leung is no rock star but he shares his fascinating experience of following legendary Seattle rock band Pearl Jam around the world in the newly released book, This All Encompassing Trip.

Though it touches on Pearl Jam’s music, shows and tour, the nonfiction novel’s main focus is on the extraordinary familial bonds formed between the fans as they relentlessly travel from show to show across Canada, America, Europe and Australia during the band’s 2005 and 2006 world tour. Reminiscent of the Grateful Dead’s famous followers the Deadheads, the kindness, passion and dedication of this unique community is revealed through the many characters in this travel story.

“Nothing like great music, amazing friends and the spirit of adventure to get you pulled into This All Encompassing Trip,” explains editor Janet McCullough.

Canadian born Jason Leung, then 25, quit his job as a civil engineer and construction manager to follow Pearl Jam on tour and has since become an avid traveller, aspiring filmmaker, travel writer, part time blogger and entrepreneur. His range of experience broadened from managing high profile construction projects for both the Vancouver and London Olympics to directing and producing travel documentaries, music and wedding videos, and co-founding his own design company, on top of writing this book. Jason says he “left it all behind to pursue a more fulfilling life.”

The story chronicles his journey of 197 days on the road driving 40,494km and flying 103 hours through 13 countries for 62 Pearl Jam shows. Along the way, Jason opens his mind, discovers new cultures, tries various tasty foods, finds romance and develops strong connections with incredible people who allow him to always feel at home during a world trip.

To give back to this family of friends, $1 usd for every order from the book’s website (www.ThisAllEncompassingTrip.com) will be donated to The Wishlist Foundation (www.wishlistfoundation.org), a Pearl Jam fan nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Pearl Jam’s charitable and philanthropic goals.

“Our love, our excitement, our reason, our world, put into words,” proclaims Laura Trafton, executive director of The Wishlist Foundation. “Jason and the Touring Van are essential to making the Pearl Jam fan community what it is today.”

Please visit www.ThisAllEncompassingTrip.com for more information about the book.

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