"RUNNING THE LIGHT" is a powerful, important novel that deserves to reach a global audience and potentially change lives. There is no better platform for achieving this, folks, than Oprah Winfrey's vaunted Book of the Month Club. 

We believe Oprah should pick this book and instantly shine a light on issues such as elder poverty, broken families, the challenges of America's gig economy, and substance abuse that only temporarily is awesome. 

Oprah is known around the world for choosing wonderful books that enthrall readers and elevate artists. "Running the Light," penned by author and comedian Sam Tallent, offers not only an engrossing, unflinching story but a mirror reflecting the human experience. We see ourselves in protagonist Billy Ray Schafer, especially if we're ex-cons who routinely ingest literally any intoxicant in any situation. And then drive to the next show. (Oprah, a reformed party girl if there ever was one, will certainly relate.) 

The book poignantly delves into the life and troubled soul of Schafer, a comedian grappling with personal and professional demons. Its raw honesty and authenticity present a moving, unfiltered look at struggles and triumphs that define the human condition, even for billionaire moguls. It's a study in perseverance. It's an endorsement for kindling true talent. And it illustrates for America's youth why Shop-Vac-ing gackers thick as shipping ropes is almost always ill-advised.  

While we cannot endorse Schafer's actions at the Denver zombie parade—who's really themselves after waking up bludgeoned next to a dumpster?—we can identify with the bleak, scorched desert that his prospects have become. If you've tried and lost, as we all have, you know his pain.   

Support this petition, and let's urge Oprah to consider "Running the Light" for her Book of the Month. Let's help prove to the world that Oprah is inarguably brave and truly inclusive. Your signature could be instrumental in introducing this incredible work to a wide, wide audience, serving bookworms around the planet the stiff, bottom-shelf drink of literary gold their trembling hands deserve. 

Please sign this petition and help thrust Billy Ray Schafer onto Oprah's nightstand now!