Berman's first collection of poetry, "Actual Air", was released by "Open Books," in 1999"," to critical acclaim. "Open Books" was initially created to publish "Actual Air." An independent release, the 20,000 plus copies sold was considered highly successful. Around this time he estimated that he made $23,000 a year. In 2001, Silver Jews returned with "Bright Flight" and "Tennessee", which also features Berman's then-wife Cassie Berman—their relationship starting two years prior. The two lived in Nashville for 20 years. In 2001, he had made $45,000 from his music.