Author Shares Inspirational Story Of Diverse People Coming Together

Photos: Kathryn J. Hardy

Author Kathryn J. Hardy has published the inspirational, true story of a dental school graduate on a USS Navy ship headed for Antarctica. Determined to uncover the secret of success, Johnny embarks on a journey to find love, wealth and happiness in the 1960s and 70s. Along the way, he crosses paths with a Black domestic worker named Otis. After returning, Johnny begins fighting for equal rights in Atlanta, Ga., with the help of his newfound sidekick, Otis.

The pair encounter injustices, sacrifices, unrest and near-death experiences. Through it all, the southern men rely on humor and courage to rise above troubling times in America and preach respect for people of all colors and from all walks of life. As they grew from young men with insatiable appetites for life, happiness, and success; each rose above troubled times to become the individuals they are today.

Hardy has gotten to know Johnny and Otis personally over the years. She has spent countless hours listening to their stories of adventure, success, love and even murder. Hardy shares the story of Johnny and Jazzbo with respect to all human beings. Their journey of life lessons created many remarkable experiences for Johnny and Otis.

One of the most prodigious parts of this book is the enormous accomplishments that followed their lives during the 1960s and 70s. In a short period of time, two very extraordinary men bonded in a then-uncommon relationship. As individuals, Johnny and Otis both accepted their pasts and looked to their futures, bonding an unbreakable friendship for a lifetime. Through each other, they discovered who they were as individuals and as humans, rather than through the racial prejudices of the time. Beating all odds, they were unstoppable, living their lives rather than wishing for a different existence.

“It is with great pleasure and honor that I tell this story of two extraordinary southern men during a tumultuous time in the history of the United States,” Hardy said. “This is a story about a time when Black people and white people did not associate with each other in parts of the south.”

Hardy emphasizes that the best way to learn life lessons is under unpredictable and less-than-perfect circumstances, and demonstrates how people survive racism through humanity, love and positive attitudes.

Available through Archway Publishing, Barnes & Noble, Amazon and http://www.kathrynjhardybooks.com

About the author Kathryn J. Hardy graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Art Education from Wesleyan College in Macon, Ga. She is an accomplished portrait artist, fashion and perfume designer. Through worldwide travels with her husband, Ron, Hardy discovered her love for writing. Through this outlet, her creativity has exploded into fiction and nonfiction works, offering a unique and inspiring view on life. For more information or an autographed copy, please visit http://www.kathrynjhardybooks.com.