Birth of a Hippie: A Graphic Memoir

The Chronicles of a Back-to-the-Lander #1

by JoDee Samuelson

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.

Genres: Memoir, Graphic Novels, Nonfiction

112 pages, Paperback

First published September 2, 2025

Reviews

[Noah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks to Pownal Street Press and NetGalley for the ARC.

“Birth Of A Hippie” is the autobiographical graphic memoir by JoDee Samuelson detailing her experiences being around and a part of hippie culture.

In an effort to skip any fluff, I want to jump straight to the highs and lows of this book.

Highs:

-In a graphic novel of any kind, the art has to be as important and weighed as heavily as the story itself. In this memoir, the art is clear and has a definitive style. All the images were easy to follow, characters were recognizable and the art itself was unique and intriguing. The art is a part of why I tried this book out.

-The writing can be quite charming and nostalgic. The author’s walk through the story of her life clearly is one filled with joy and acceptance. Even in the mistakes, there is a feeling of love put into the journey that led the author to where she is now.

Lows:

-Unfortunately, I found the narrative to be quite mundane. Most of the story felt like it was all setting the stage for a larger set of events, only to find the story wrapping up. Which, while realistic, doesn’t make for the most interesting read.

-This feels like a lovely tale that someone might pass on to some younger family members- some fun story told at a family gathering the the excitement of the nieces and nephews. But as an outsider, it felt like a story without much meaning. A narrative without a message. There is nothing wrong with the narrative. But it feels lacking in direction.

Overall, while the story is well drawn and filled with charm, the lack of depth leaves it meandering and occasionally pedantic.

[Richard Derus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Real Rating: 4.5* of five

The Publisher Says: 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.

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: Giving new life to the old nostrum "there ain't nobody here but us chickens" is the best, quietest moment of humor in Author JoDee's graphic memoir...her life is a journey from mainstream religiosity to self-acceptance of her sexuality, to the world of those who believe in living with instead of off Nature's gifts.

What made this a more-than-usually good sequential-art read for me is that I'm of the author's generation. The story is one I'm much in sympathy with as a result. The aesthetics are familiar to me, being those of the old underground comix scene. I'm in sympathy with Author JoDee's journey out of an environment of prescribed roles and thought into one that is exciting. is dynamic, tries new things and invents stuff for itself.

A young dyke, a back-to-the-lander, a questing, questioning ecowarrior, are all good giftees for the book. Also, old folks feeling like the past is the place to be, or just nostalgic for a vanished kind of optimism could use an inoculation against feeling forgotten.







You get the idea. I'm charmed, and suspect I'd be charmed by Author JoDee as well. I felt a bit off the five-star rating because there were moments I did not understand why we were cutting to or away from a scene; it could easily be me, since I'm not native to the sequential-art audience.

Getting one for old Aunt Lynne might prove to be the best gift this Yule.

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Birth of a Hippie: A Graphic Memoir by JoDee Samuelson

JoDee Samuelson’s Birth of a Hippie is a visually arresting and introspective graphic memoir that chronicles her journey from a minister’s daughter in Alberta to a free-spirited hippie in 1960s Toronto. Blending evocative illustrations with candid prose, Samuelson captures the contradictions of the era—its idealism, chaos, and personal reckonings—while reflecting on identity, rebellion, and self-discovery. Though occasionally uneven in pacing, the memoir stands out for its authenticity and vibrant storytelling.

Key Themes & Insights

Visual Storytelling as Memory
Samuelson’s art style—reminiscent of underground comix—amplifies the memoir’s emotional core. The panels oscillate between whimsy (flower-child escapades) and grit (societal pushback), mirroring the duality of the hippie movement.

Cultural & Generational Critique
The memoir subtly interrogates the gap between countercultural aspirations and their realities. Samuelson’s time in Toronto, “hanging out” with her boyfriend, reveals both liberation and disillusionment—a nuanced take often glossed over in nostalgia-driven narratives.

Identity in Flux
Her transition from a sheltered upbringing to radical self-reinvention resonates with readers navigating similar tensions. The graphic format excels here, using visual metaphors (e.g., fragmented panels during moments of doubt) to depict internal conflict.

Strengths & Limitations

Pros:
Historical Texture: Offers a grassroots view of Canadian counterculture, distinct from U.S.-centric narratives.

Cons:
Pacing: Some sections linger on episodic anecdotes without advancing thematic depth.
Audience Fit: Those seeking a linear narrative may find the fragmented structure challenging.

How would I describe this book?
- A kaleidoscopic journey into the heart of 1960s rebellion—with ink-stained honesty.
- For fans of Fun Home and Ducks, a graphic memoir that dances between joy and jadedness.
- Samuelson’s art doesn’t just depict her past; it resurrects the psychedelic soul of an era.

Acknowledgments
Thank you to NetGalley and Pownal Street Press for providing an advance review copy. Birth of a Hippie is slated for release in Fall 2025, a timely addition to graphic memoir collections and cultural history shelves.

Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Recommended for: Readers of graphic memoirs, 1960s historians, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of art and autobiography.

Companion Reads: Ducks (Kate Beaton) for another Canadian perspective, Fun Home (Alison Bechdel) for literary parallels.

[Theediscerning · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent memoir of a hippie – indeed the narrator styles herself as a "hippie therapist", in order it would appear to correct our misconceptions of hippiedom. Either way, this starts with her strict religious upbringing, to parents who would never twig on that their living-off-the-land beginnings together were not exactly different to the off-grid hippie life. Eventually boys, music, studying and freedom come along, and we see the author mature into her first real career, running a health foods store on PEI.

It's all very amiable, but I fear it might be a touch too forgettable for the likes of me. Pleasant text, pleasant and well-done images (even the framing sequences, in between the extended flashbacks, are done with fine variety and movement) – I perhaps sought something a touch grittier, more vibrant, more dramatic. Still, this is clearly a personal document of a life, and from a creator who didn't feel the need to embellish anything – although that said she has altered everyone's species from human to anthropomorphised baby chick (so even the males are hippie chicks, ya dig?).

This is branded as a book to launch a series of such memoirs, and I'd be perfectly OK with seeing more. But whether I'd recall much of this when doing so remains to be seen. More geared to those who know the life and don't need any therapy regards it, this would rate four stars from them. Me? Perhaps three and a half, given a prevailing gust of patchouli.

[Emi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Publishing date: 02.09.2025 (DD/MM/YYYY)
Thank you to NetGalley and Pownal Street Press for the ARC. My opinions are my own.

I am not very familiar with hippie life, and I am still not sure I am. I think I had envisioned something different based on other media that might not be completely aligned with reality. So this gave me another perspective to broaden my horizons a little more.

The story takes place from the birth of our protagonist, and "ends" in the now. All the while our protagonist is telling us about her life. Most of the story is about her feeling like she didn't quite fit in, reflecting on her religion, and eventually discovering how she wants to live.

I found the story to be cozy and domestic. The artstyle was fine, and the choice to make everyone birds was fascinating. It works well as a memoir, a little easier to digest maybe in this format.

I am not sure who i would recommend this to. Typical memoir readers may find it a little short and too different. Comic readers may not find the contents all that interesting. Maybe I could recommend it to anyone interested in reading about breaking away from the family norm?

Overall, an Ok read. Giving this 3 stars

[Bargain Sleuth Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Pownell Street Press for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Birth of a Hippie by JoDee Samuelson is all about her life as a hippie in Canada. I loved the themes of self-discovery and finding out who you are and where you belong. Samuelson’s emphasis on following your own path and not the path chosen for you is the perfect message for graphic memoir readers. Just because someone else has placed a path for you does not mean you have to follow it.

I knew very little about the Canadian prairies, and what I learned was very interesting. The graphic memoir format does much to add an extra layer of the author’s life. At first, I couldn’t figure out why the illustrations of the author were of a chicken. Then, I remembered that some people call women “hippie chicks.” The illustrations really help to tell Samuelson’s story in a vivid manner.

The LGBTQIA+ lens and coming-of-age identity work echo the neurodivergent and queer themes I’ve been gravitating to lately. The back-to-the-land thread dovetails with the climate-and-food-system curiosity I’ve also been reading more of lately. This quiet, reflective graphic memoir was a hit for me.

[NICODESO · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lighthearted yet poignant graphic memoir that follows the journey of a Baptist minister's daughter who goes on to discover herself, and embrace the hippie lifestyle with her partner. It is reflective, interesting and has some witty observations thrown in for good measure. Themes like religious identity, family dynamics, growing up pains, first love, and even career path discussions with parents are relatable and universal.
If you enjoy graphic novels that blend personal history with sharp commentary, Birth of a Hippie is promising. Music lovers will appreciate the references -- I smiled each time the author JoDee mentioned singing in harmonies! Also Gordon Lightfoot whose subtle and controlled vibrato I discovered last year in "If you Could Read my Mind".
Thanks NetGalley for this ARC Copy.

[Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Birth of a Hippie is an interesting graphic novel memoir. At first, I found myself wondering��why write this? I already know what a hippie is, where hippies came from, and what that culture was all about. But then it struck me: I’m a lot older than the target audience for this book. For many readers, the 1960s and hippie culture aren’t familiar territory, which makes this memoir both valuable and relevant.

On top of that, some people are simply motivated to tell their story—and if you’re going to write a memoir, why not do it in graphic novel form? The subject at the center of this memoir is clearly a creative person, which adds another layer of charm.

Overall, I thought it was good, and I can see it being especially informative for anyone curious about hippie culture.

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

⊰ 3,5 stars

First of all, I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!

The Birth of a Hippie is a graphic novel memoir that tells the story of the authors experience about growing up in a religious family and then becoming a hippie. It is a coming-of-age story that is told with a lot of insight and jokes about the author's experiences.
The art style is cute and gives me black and white newspaper cartoon vibes.
Overall I thought this was an okay read; neither the story, writing or art blew me away, but it was definitely interesting to read. I'm not a person that has a lot of affinity with hippies or their lifestyle, so it was certainly interesting to get a look into that.

[Casey Halvorsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley, Pownal Street Press,and Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) for this arc!

5/5 stars

This was a really lovely graphic memoir following JoDee's life beginning in rural Saskatchewan as a minister's daughter to PEI owning a health food store and eventually a therapist. The art was easy and whimsical, perfect for this narrative! I really love graphic memoirs, as I feel the artistic addition brings so many more layers to a story than just words on paper, and this is easily one of my favourites. I love how she was showing her life in film that she narrated, such a unique take on memoirs! I will definitely be looking into the animation JoDee has done in the past, I would love to read/watch more stories from her.

[Mostly Sapphic Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute, straightforward memoir with a bit of humor and a lot of heart.

I was particularly interested in the culturally historic aspects of this. As someone much younger than the author, this was an informative look into Canadian culture in the 1960’s and ‘70s from a personal, first hand perspective.

The drawings are a nice visual aid to the telling of the story, which is quite meaty despite the book being relatively short. And, of course, the choice to depict all the human characters as birds was super cute and led to some funny moments.

This book would be great as an introduction for anyone interested in the hippie cultural era.

[Ingrid Stephens · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very sweet graphic novel that tells the story of a young woman from Canada who unknowingly became a hippie.
Lots of memories here for me, my sister was a bona fide Hippie. And boy, was I jealous! Living off the land, making things to sell, loving who you want with no judgements... hippies were the coolest people around.

The artwork is well done e, though it's hard to read all the dialog on my phone.

Highly recommended. Expected publishing date; Sept. 02, 2025

Thanks to @netgalley and Pownal Street Press for the opportunity to read this eArc in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion

[Ana Ćupurdija · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a lighthearted and fun read.

A coming-of-age story with a lot of good humor, but also a lot of authenticity and deeper thoughts.

I loved the humorous approach the author took to narrating her life, while also mentioning some serious topics and sharing her inner world.
I also loved how she described life in a different era.
Her commentary on religion, feminism, and the LGBTQ+ community was well-woven into the story.

I felt like the plot cut off more abruptly at the end, or I was just too invested at that point. :)

Overall, a fun and interesting read.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Charlotte Carter]

This was an interesting read on the authors experience growing up religious and becoming a hippie. I enjoyed the artwork of the graphic novel.

I love the authors humor. It reminded me of myself telling stories about my life.

If you have lived through and with a Baptist family as a child this is spot on when recalling things as a child. With that, it reads as a story you would be told by a friend. This is my first graphic novel memoir, and is an interesting book type!

This is a good, quick read!



Thanks to NetGalley and Pownell Street Press for the digital copy of this book

[Adrian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given a copy of Birth of a Hippie by JoDee Samuelson from Pownal Street Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Working in an office, a book like Birth of a Hippie is ideal for a break. The illustrations were excellent and the social-cultural historical leanings were varied. I certainly didn't feel like a hippie after, but it's very much to say that the hippie lifestyle is strong because people commit to its shared messaging. I also appreciated learning that paisley was an Iranian design concept that took off. That was a great of trivia.

[Kiani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Birth of a Hippie was a refreshing and retrospective look into the hippie lifestyle as experienced by JoDee Samuelson

This was such a fun short read and an interesting insight into the life of JoDee Samuelson. The themes of finding out where you belong and who you are as a person are themes that a lot of people can relate to no matter their journey in this world. The emphasis on the need to follow our own individual paths instead of the paths that people have placed be for us, really makes you think about your own life and what has lead to where you are on your journey, and if there if the path you are on is truly your own and not just what is expected of us by others.

I really enjoyed this memoir in a Graphic Novel format as I fell it gave and extra layer of the authors life that sometimes just reading a memoir can not give.

For me this was a solid 4 Star Read and I would recommend this to all even if your not interested in the hippie lifestyle there are so many lessons that we can learn about ourselves within these pages.

[Horace Hudson · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC provided by Netgalley and Pownal Street Press in exchange for an honest review

This story is told by an older woman narratoring her experience as a growing up as the kid of a minister and into a hippie. It's a tad mundane, but charmingly so, for me at least. I did find the talks of what one communal home was like interesting, along with how she talked about hippie culture, since that's not a thing that most people from my generation know much about.

It has a charming art style. I enjoyed it, and am looking forward to seeing more from her for a decently light hearted romp

[Allie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this graphic novel; I appreciated the humor, including making her story fit with the chicken character (for example, the birthing portion). It was interesting to see how someone may go from growing up in the church to the hippie lifestyle, and what that meant for them throughout their life. I also liked the little wrap up at the end of the people she had met along the way.

Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC in return for an honest review.

[Lisa Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the cover and the title of the book! The book is just what the title says it is. I do wish that the pages were in color like the cover. The book had lots of descriptions and details, so there are no questions that needed to be asked. The illustrations were interesting. I am curious about why the “people” were chickens instead of people? This book takes place in Canada in the 60’s and 70’s. It has a wonderful conclusion that wraps up where the characters of the book are today.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was really good at showing how times went from strict religious practices to more of the hippie vibes. I enjoyed some of it and got bored for some of it. I guess it’s more of a realistic view of how that movement impacted people

[Curious Madra · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks Netgalley and publisher for allowing me to read this graphic novel for free.

To be honest, I thought the art is meh and I thought the story was hard to follow with so much time skips..

[Diana Flores · Rating 3 out of 5]

Started out interesting, but got pretty mundane and text-heavy.

Read eARC via Edelweiss. Publication date September 2, 2025