Birth of a Hippie: A Graphic Memoir by JoDee Samuelson
We’re thrilled to announce the upcoming Fall 2025 release of Birth of a Hippie: A Graphic Memoir by JoDee Samuelson—a graphic novel memoir from Pownal Street Press.
From Alberta to the Island
In this tender and vividly illustrated memoir, JoDee Samuelson—youngest daughter of a Baptist minister—begins her story on the Canadian Prairies. As she grows up surrounded by sloughs, foothills, frosty winters, and Jello desserts, JoDee starts to question the world around her.
Through whimsical drawings and sharp, introspective narration, Birth of a Hippie paints a rich portrait of mid-20th century prairie life. Singing “God Save the Queen” at school assemblies, wrestling with conformity, and dreaming of a different life—JoDee invites readers to step inside her quietly rebellious world.
JoDee’s journey winds from Alberta to the Rockies, Toronto, and eventually to Prince Edward Island, where she finds not just a home, but a way of life. Her story is one of transformation—from obedient Prairie girl to independent spirit, back-to-the-lander, and health-food store owner.
Blending humour, heart, and self-discovery, Birth of a Hippie captures one woman’s path to belonging—offering a deeply personal lens into themes of family, identity, and resilience in a rapidly changing world.
A Story for Curious Spirits
This book will resonate with fans of LGBTQ2+ memoirs, graphic storytelling, and anyone curious about the back-to-the-land movement that reshaped communities across rural Canada in the 1970s. Birth of a Hippie is both a memoir and a cultural time capsule—at once unique and universal.
“In the back-to-the-land movement, many people sought out a simpler life—building their own homes, growing their own food, and living closer to nature. Many young people moved to Prince Edward Island during this time, including my own parents. It’s an honour and privilege to be publishing this unique part of Island history.”
—Genevieve Loughlin, Founder & Publisher, Pownal Street Press
About the Author
JoDee Samuelson is a filmmaker, artist, and writer who has called Prince Edward Island home for over 30 years. Her award-winning animated films have screened at festivals around the world. She is the author of The Cove Journal: Life on the Island’s South Shore (Island Studies Press). Birth of a Hippie is her second book, and her most personal work yet.
Birth of a Hippie
ISBN: 9781998129492
$21.95 CAD | Paperback
Release Date: September 2, 2025
Pownal Street Press creates beautiful non fiction and children’s books that inspire, educate, and enthral readers. We exist to give rise to brave stories, and to be a light for community and connection. Our mission is to discover, amplify, and empower storytellers, broadening the publishing landscape with a diverse collection of topics. Our business thrives on the creativity of our authors. For more information about the Press and its books, please visit: www.pownalstreetpress.com.