Birth of a Hippie (Paperback)

Birth of a Hippie is a heartfelt graphic memoir that begins in the Prairies, as JoDee Samuelson, the youngest daughter of a Baptist minister—begins to search for her place in the world. Through her enchanting illustrations and witty storytelling, JoDee chronicles life on the Canadian prairies. Ultimately JoDee’s journey takes her from Alberta to Prince Edward Island.

In telling her story, JoDee blends humor, heart, and introspection. Birth of a Hippie recounts JoDee’s coming of age story from Prairie girl to be an independent spirit, back-to-the-lander, and health-food pioneer in a small Island on the East Coast. This graphic novel explores themes of family, identity, and self-discovery—offering an intimate glimpse into the life of a woman finding her place in an ever-changing world.

Perfect for fans of LGBTQ2+ narratives and those interested in the history of the back-to-the-land movement, Birth of a Hippie is both a personal story and a universal exploration of roots, resilience, and belonging.

• Birth of a Hippie is a graphic memoir tracing JoDee Samuelson’s journey from her Prairie childhood to becoming a back-to-the-lander and health-food-pioneer. Through witty storytelling and illustrations, it explores themes of family, identity and self discovery against the backdrop of the mid-20th century.
• In the 1970s, a back-to-the-land movement emerged as people sought simpler lives, building homes, growing food, and escaping the mainstream. Many moved to rural, conservative areas for cheap land and a chance to create a better life. Some were draft dodgers or Vietnam veterans, while others left big city lives behind.
• A deeply personal and relatable story with vivid illustrations by a seasoned animator. With her background as a film animator, JoDee uses birds as whimsical characters to bring her heartfelt story to life.
• Perfect for fans of LGBTQ2+ narratives and those interested in the history of the back-to-the-land movement.