Redneck Boy in the Promised Land
Virginia native Ben Jones has been called "a two bit actor from a stupid television show..." And that has been one of the kinder things said about Jones. But make no mistake about it, if you read his autobiography you will find out for yourself the wit, wisdom, humor, and brutal honesty this man possesses in huge quantities. Yes, Ben Jones is best remembered for his role as "Cooter" in the 70-80's hit tv show Dukes of Hazzard. According to Jones the show was to be so much more than a southern stereotype about rednecks in Georgia. The show had a southern creator and many talented writers and actors who were "southern bred" but once the show moved from Georgia to a Hollywood back lot, everything went to hell in a hurry. After the show's demise, Jones became involved in the political scene in Georgia by becoming a Democratic congressman from the Atlanta area. After two terms he was steamrolled by redistricting and Newt Gingrich. Along the way you'll read of alcoholism and recovery, civil rights, numerous marriages, a debilitating knee injury, southern hospitality, working on the railroad, redemption, and tenacity. A remarkable memoir by a remarkable man.
