Running the Light

Debauched, divorced, and courting death, Billy Ray Schafer is a comedian who has forgotten how to laugh. Over the course of seven spun-out days across the American Southwest, he travels from from hell gig to hell gig in search of a reason to keep living in this bleak and violent glimpse into the psyche of a thoroughly ruined man. Ex-inmate, ex-husband, ex-father - comedian is the only title Schafer has left. Trapped in the wreckage of his wasted career, Billy Ray knows the answer to the question: What happens when the opportunity doesn't come - or worse - it comes and goes?

(P)2021 Tantor

Great listen. Ari Sucks

Great insight into the struggles and reality of a stand up comic. Heartfelt and true descriptions of settings were great listens. Funny jokes. Ari Sucks. Worst read of all the individuals chosen. Dan Soder and the rest, just excellent. Ari Sucks. He could have taken his time. Just seemed a bit rushed. Love all the comedians and Ari. But it just had to be said. Great book! Can’t wait for another read by the author.

Running The Light is heartbreaking and hilarious

Sam Tallent captures the dark and obsessive side of being comedian perpetually on the road while describing a landscape of ugliness with beautiful prose

That Sam can write

The Bachman-esc ending is abrupt and semi unsatisfying but hopefully it allows for Mr tallent to replumb the depths at a later time?! I love Sam’s work his comedy is amazing his writing is fucking phenomenal kudos my brother!

A great listen!

I loved the story- it was engaging and well-written. I enjoyed the fact that well-known comics read different chapters. I do wish the audio was more consistent but understand it was recorded during *troubling times

Morose, Graphic and Comforting

I loved the strong use of imagery and brutal honesty. It's a raw tale and truly very gripping - like Tuesdays with Morrie, only there's no one there with the exception of addiction.