Sanders is a major figure in today's populist uprising (and in the book), and his methods of building cross-partisan, cross-ideological coalitions in support of populist causes is one of the least-explored but most important case studies in how to turn an uprising into a full-fledged movement.

Being here in Vermont with him to launch this project is really exciting - not just because Sanders is such a significant figure, but because places like Vermont - places far away from the national media spotlight - are the real frontlines of this battle. In an interview with Seven Days, Vermont's major alternative weekly newspaper, I explain this state's role in the populist uprising. You can read that interview here.

In the coming days, I'm going to be on the Colbert Report, and will have excerpts of the book published in two of the country's leading progressive magazines.

I hope to meet as many of you as possible on this tour. Obviously, I hope you buy the book - and just as importantly, I hope you tell as many people as you can about the upcoming events in your area, and about the book. As I've always said, this book represents a perspective shunned by the Establishment - and that means I rely on grassroots support from you in buying the book and TELLING YOUR FRIENDS ABOUT IT (for instance, you could send this blog post to your personal email list!) It also relies on a real grassroots outreach strategy, which is why I am spending the next two months on the road doing events with local groups all over the country.

As I launch this book, let me just take this moment to thank all of you for your support over the years - and for your support on this project. I couldn't do it without you.