Johnny and Jazzbo
$34.99 – $47.99
Biography Book
Amid the sixties and inspired by author, Robert Rourke’s book, Poor No More, dentist Dr. Johnny Savage embarks on a journey destined to find wealth, love and happiness. From explorations in the freezing land of Antarctica to fighting for equal rights on hot, sultry days in Atlanta, Georgia, dangerous and near-death challenges follow Johnny Savage and his sidekick, Otis Ikner. Together, their sense of humor, tenacity and courage become their only shield against all odds in an unpredictable journey ladened with sacrifices, misjustices and unrest. As they fought their way towards success, only time could tell where their road to destiny would lead. Inevitably, in life there is humor, danger, love, compassion, opportunities, lost opportunities and failures. It is the spirit of Johnny and Otis’ desire to live, and be the best they could be, that allowed them to take on the challenges in life. In this book, you will cry, laugh, feel angry and find compassion as you cheer the characters on; all the way to the end!
| cover | hard cover autographed, hard cover, paperback, e-book |
|---|
Susan Jackson –
Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down. It’s a beautiful story that is beautifully told. You are immediately transported to another time and era that for some will bring back a lot of memories if their own youth, particularly for those who lived through the Vietnam war and the civil rights movement. Thank you Kathryn for sharing Johnny’s and Otis’s story.
Barbara Ramlow –
Kathryn J. Hardy’s, Johnny and Jazzbo, is a big, beautiful biography of two remarkable, but unlikely men, Dr. Johnny Savage, and Otis Ikner, one White, the other Black. Together they weave their way through disparate lives, bonding in ways that should have proven impossible, considering the pressures of society during that time period.
Ms. Hardy skillfully focuses on most of the historical events that shaped American society and thinking; from Antarctic exploration to the space race, from the politics of Kennedy LBJ, Goldwater, and Nixon, to Martin Luther King and Racial and Civil unrest, world wide tensions of the Cold War and Vietnam, protest riots, women’s lib, rock and roll, and Woodstock.
In the midst of such critical events, Johnny and Otis remain focused on their individual goals as well as their friendship.
The two men, both from small towns in Northwest Florida, each overcome the odds against them through plain hard work. Dr. Johnny Savage’s philosophy of “poor no more” leads him to become a successful cosmetic dentist, real estate investor and Georgia politician. Otis, through Johnny’s guidance, overcomes his lack of education, and becomes the first Black male dental hygienist in Georgia.
Together, their inspiring and remarkable tale of friendship and accomplishment are masterfully interwoven throughout America’s most challenging times.
Ronald Hardy (verified owner) –
My wife told the story of the two main characters in this book, Dr. Johnny Savage and Otis Ikner with amazing details and descriptions! Her talent for writing allows you to live the moment in time along with all the other characters as you experience their lives in the most unique way!
Ronnie Whitehead (verified owner) –
Incredible amount of research and detail combined with an deft writing style makes for a great read!!!!
Maryann M. (verified owner) –
Very enjoyable read so far !
Roy jackson –
What a great book written by an author who spent many years of research and interviews. Once I started reading , it was hard to put down. What a great story about two incredible men.
Sally Buerke –
A historical thriller of two men, Johnny Savage and Otis Ikner, and of the love and friendship that developed between them. Johnny, determined to be successful in life, was guided in his life choices from a book he read, Poor No More, by Robert Rourke. Kathryn leads us first through the pages of Johnny’s very successful navy career and historical accomplishments in Antarctica. After leaving the Navy, Johnny began his dental and political career in Atlanta, Georgia. Not satisfied with becoming successful for himself only, Johnny follows Robert Rourke’s example of hiring a young black man, less fortunate than himself, and teaches him the life skills he needs to be successful and respected in life. Otis is extremely bright and a quick learner. As you read about all his challenges and hurdles as he matures into a very successful man, you will laugh and cry, be angry, be proud, and even cringe at the stories Kathryn tells so well. A spell-binding story that you will not be able to put down. The books ends with Johnny and Otis returning to their “homeland” and a much simpler way life as their life-long friendship continues today.
Kathryn has done an excellent job of researching the history of the years of Johnny and Otis’s adult lives in Atlanta, Georgia. Having lived in Gainesville, Georgia during a number of those years, I relived many of those historical days. It is a book I highly recommend reading!
Cheryl G. (verified owner) –
My order arrived quickly and with Kathryn’s personal signature. My husband and I have enjoyed all that we have read so far and look forward to opportunities to read more!!!
Claire Bannerman –
Having lived in Walton County some 45+ years this true tale of Dr. Johnny Savage , Dentist, and the multi-talented Otis Ikner reopens our eyes to decades of our history that flows easily through author Kathryn’s sentences. She with Johnny Savage and Jazzbo celebrate our NW Florida region alongside the magnificent Choctawhatchee River.
Rick Ackerman –
I lived through 10 years of suspense during the writing of this book, watching Kathryn pour her heart, soul and sweat into every word of it. She would never break and give any clue of the content. After finally getting to read the book, it absolutely did not disappoint. It’s a phenomenal read, you’ll hang on every word and at the end, you’ll wish there was more book to read. Do not miss the opportunity to live a little of Johnny and Jazzbo’s life and exploits through the eyes of Kathryn!
julia cunningham –
I am amazed at the amount of detail and history that went into this book. I felt like I was on the journey with Johnny and Otis! Once I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down! Thank you Kathryn!
Keith Miller –
Just finished the Most Wonderful read EVER !! JOHNNY AND JAZZBO !! To start what a Wonderful idea to share such a Terrific life story. Kathryn Hardy has captioned the Essence of ones life through the eyes of Johnny Savage. You will enjoy the Lessons in life and the Story will Touch and Aspire you to make changes in your life for the better ! Come Enjoy how Kathryn has shown the weave of life through their wonderful Tail of Life !! If you want something to read start to finish and can’t and won’t Put down then you Better READ JOHNNY AND JAZZBO !! BY the VERY SPECIAL AUTHOR – KATHRYN J. HARDY
Larry H –
Johnny and Jazzbo captures an important era in American political and racial history utilizing an entertaining narrative while also addressing foundational philosophies of life.
Mike J –
A very entertaining and inspiring story.
Nancy Ackerman –
This BOOK is Amazing!!! I couldn’t put it down once I read the first chapter. Kathryn Hardy has a specialized way of writing, making the reader see, hear and feel every page in this remarkable TRUE STORY. This book kept me on the edge of my seat, wanting more and more of its content. I didn’t want it to end but even that ,left me with a wonderful feeling in my heart…knowing what Johnny and Jazzbo accomplished in their lives! A definite MUST READ…even if you don’t typically read. Especially living through times like these….Johnny and Jazzbo is an enlightening TRUTH…about how 2 magnificent MEN who honored, respected and trusted one another during the Civil unrest of the 1960’s. Congratulations to their Lifelong Friendship and Thank you Kathryn Hardy for telling us their wonderful story.
Lisa D’Aoust –
I was able to read Johnny and Jazzbo in early January and I was wanting more as it came to the end. I loved the authors ability to detail every aspect of conversation, setting, thoughts, and history. I could have read more, on and on. It was a fantastic read, I expect to see it make a Bestseller list!
Lori Ceier –
A wonderfully written book about two unlikely friends.
From living through the turbulent 60s in Atlanta to the splendor of life along the Choctawhatchee River, author Kathryn Hardy eloquently chronicles the lives of Johnny Savage and Otis Ikner into a great read.
Roch D’Aoust –
What an awesome fun to read book. Lively story of two highly respected men with non-stop action.
Karen Finnerty (verified owner) –
READ THIS BOOK!!!!! I have been reading this incredible book written by my dear, childhood friend, Kathryn Jackson Hardy. It is a true story that is absolutely riveting, intriguing, informative, historically accurate, and filled with constant reminders of the goodness and positive attributes present in people and how they draw on those to overcome adversity. I am even more amazed at the unimaginable amount of time, energy, and dedication that Kathryn poured into the research required to write a book of this caliber! I cannot say enough wonderful things about the book and it’s impact on the reader! This is an “Out Of The Park Grand Slam”!!! For my Georgia Dawg football fans, this is a “National Championship” read! So, just read the book!!!!!!! It’s that good!!!!! You won’t be able to put it down!!!!
Suzanne Dozier (verified owner) –
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! A true story of friendship, compassion, love and forgiveness. It takes place in the 1950’s through 1970’s in the South…..a time and place dealing with racial prejudice. Well researched. It caught my interest right away and left me with an uplifted feeling.
Max Aly –
Amazing book. Riveting from start to finish. From an outsider’s perspective I was fascinated by the dynamics at play between Dr. Savage and Mr. Ikner. Having grown up in India, most of my notions about the history and people of the United States are acquired second hand through reading and Johnny and Jazbo provided me with a wealth of insights about a very traumatic and eventful period of American history. The nuance and flavor of Kathryn’s narration and her flair for highlighting the depth and the drama of every situation makes this one of the more interesting books that I have read in a long time. I have read the book twice from cover to cover!
Lee Warrick –
“JOHNNY AND JAZZBO” is a very well written story of two men, one white, one black, meeting and evolving during the tumultuous years of the segregated South.
Both men, although complete opposites in nature, background and rank in society, had nevertheless a common thread: the deep desire, bordering obsession, to be ‘poor no more’.
Through unusual and challenging circumstances, they develop an enduring friendship that will last for the remnant of their lives.
Kathryn Hardy spent ten long years of perseverant work developing this story and deserves accolades for this fascinating biography. She writes with eloquence, humor and authenticity. She is a promising new writer to watch. Kudos to Ms. Hardy for a job well done!
As an actress, born and raised in Atlanta, GA, I quickly identified with her charismatic characters and the historical events I happened to live through. I warmly recommend her book.
Lee Warrick
Rita Savage Hirsh –
This is a must read book! A beautifully written story and a walk down “memory lane” for me personally.
It is a memoir of two very different men coming together to share a connection, relationship and enduring friendship in a challenging time in this country.
A story of life lessons learned. It is a meaningful account of hope and affirmation for all to embrace and celebrate our differences, but more importantly, our commonalities as human beings. A wonderful and enjoyable read!
Kudos once again to Kathryn J. Hardy.
Pamela Hon Butler (verified owner) –
I happened to see in the Washington County News the article Carol Wyatt wrote introducing this book, “Johnny and Jazzbo” about Dr. Johnny Savage and his friend Otis Ikner; and I wondered if perhaps Johnny had met my father on his way to Antarctica aboard the USS Glacier, but thought for sure (and through Ancestry . com confirmed with documentation that Dr Savage went to dental school with my husband’s father, Dr. W. D. Butler “Bill”! and not only that, was on the same military roll when they signed up for the US Navy in 1959! I ordered the book and my daughter Kim was able to get Dr. Savage’s signature at the signing party on this book to give to her grandpa. So, I am was glad to be diving into this book for so many reasons.
I was not disappointed. The author definitely did her homework and she managed to make me feel as if I was right there with a birdseye view alongside Johnny as he traveled the turbulence of the oceans and made friends with fellow sailors and explorers, making history on the way. As my father had been on Operation Deepfreeze I and wintered over after building Little America V, it was especially interesting to me to hear again from Johnny’s perspective how it was living and surviving on the Ice. Johnny took liberties that would have put my father in hot water with his commanders, but that shenanigans is what makes getting to know Dr Savage so much fun.
I do not want to tell you the whole story, but Johnny Savage went on to build a successful dental practice in Atlanta and earned his law degree from Emory, which he used to run for public office and served in the legislature in a tempestuous time of the south! Johnny imported a young man, Otis Ikner (whom I have also met, as he retired here in my home county) from Escambia County to work for him, and in this unlikely and long and amazing relationship, I learned so much history from their perspectives that although I once lived in Atlanta for more than 20 years, I can say I revisited from a very different angle!
These two gentleman made headlines and friendships and relationships together, at times taking chances that put me on the edge of my seat.
I experienced every emotion that I can think of, while on this wild ride through time, and I gained a healthy respect and love for both of these gentleman, but not without tears and anger and a shaking, as the author managed to put you right into the thick of the attitudes that prevailed during the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s…and Atlanta was a dangerous place to be! but with courage and laughs and passion and grace these two men succeeded to reach their dreams and much more.
This book hit so many personal notes, that I will read it again and again, but I recommend this book to students of history who want to know the real south and how men lived. And I commend Johnny for allowing the transparency that this book required to be so close to his heart. I am thankful for this author, Kathryn, and her painterly wisdom in building the deep relationships of these men and the environments that they overcame and her understanding of just what went into achieving their legacies.
Thank you Kathryn for carefully putting together this history, it blesses me more than I can say and is quite an inspiration and an eye-opener. I look forward to seeing this on the big screen!
Sandy DeVane –
OMG! Best book ever! I could not put it down. I encourage everyone that likes to read to buy this book. It definitely kept me on my toes. The story will grab you from beginning to end. You’ll laugh and you’ll cry. Just be ready to sit, relax and let this amazing book take you away! Kathryn thank you for the best read ever!
Jim Looker –
I was concerned when I first got the book that I might not be able to finish it due to the number of pages. Once I started it, I could not put it down. Kathryn Hardy has a gift of putting words together that draws you in and you feel like you are in the moment with the individuals in the book!
I can’t wait for her next creation!
Mary Glynn Hendricks –
A beautiful story of a fascinating gentleman AND history of an important era of the South!! I absolutely could not put it down!!
Donna Riehl –
If you enjoy reading about a unique, deep relationship among two men who never allowed racism or social injustices come between them, you found the right read.
Kathryn J Hardy’s “Johnny and Jazzbo” shares the reality of two men who were brought together and learned what it truly means to LOVE one another and RESPECT one another. This book tells the reader how these two men lifted each other up time and time again.
Johnny saw how Jazzbo survived injustices – large and small and at the same time Johnny never lost sight of Jazzbo’s individuality as a human being.
These two men will warm your heart and make you realize what really matters in life.
Ms. Hardy has wonderfully presented the facts of the relationship of these two men. Some facts are heartbreaking and others will bring tears of joy and an everlasting smile to one’s face. One thing is for sure- it’s a relationship to admire for many years to come! Well done!! Bravissimo!!
Deborah Fox –
Kathryn J Hardy’s book , Johnny and Jazzbo is an Amazing true story that captivates you from the beginning.Kathryn is a fantastic storyteller, making the book come alive as she transports you back to the 50’s,60’s,70’s I could not put it down. A heart warming story of friendship for the ages. Well done Kathryn
Kristen Wiblishouser –
As a book fanatic I was shocked at how much I adored this novel. I have read hundreds of books and this is one I will forever remember. It was a breath of fresh air to read this story of these two brave and tenacious men. I don’t find it a coincidence this book was published in the current time point we’re in. It’s my prayer these beautiful and captivating stories are told for generations to come – there’s no doubt in my mind that Johnny and Jazzbo will not just leave stories to fancy, but a legacy for us to stand on. Thank you Kathryn for the details and intricacies of this book, it was a wonderful read indeed and there isn’t anyone who wouldn’t greatly benefit from the tales of two men. Here’s to Johnny and Jazzbo!