The veteran comedian got his big break telling hard-luck stories about his childhood on the Johnny Carson-era "Tonight Show." But Anderson, who will perform at the Ames Center in Burnsville on New Year's Eve, appears to have mellowed as he gets older. The proof is in his book recommendation.

neal justin

"A friend suggested I read a book called 'The Happiness Advantage' by Shawn Achor. Shawn studied people all over the world to find out what made them happy. It turns out it's largely up to you, us, everyone. We decide! Ever since I read it, I have made a conscious effort to answer people when asked 'How are you, Louie?' with 'I'm great. I've never been this happy!' "