Happily Hippie-American

Celebrating the achievements and legacies of hippies, Dougan’s book aims to remind readers that the message of peace and love is still thriving . . .The chapter on drug laws is especially eye-opening . . . the arguments and sections are structured well, balancing a conversational tone and personal anecdotes with a confident presentation of facts . . an entertaining, accessible, and informative book. Four-and-a-half out of five stars.

             --SelfPublishingReview.com

It is a call to arms for all those of the hippie persuasion, encouraging them to take pride in their culture . . . It points out the harmful effects of anti-hippie culture on American democracy and . . . highlights some world-renowned accomplishments inspired by hippie culture, further emphasizing [the book’s] bold and inspirational claim that America is a better place for the hippies . . .[E]ducative, convincing in its argument, and clear and unencumbered in its expression. It is well-written and professionally edited. I rate this book four out of four stars.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          --OnlineBookClub.org 

Persuasive . . .
                  --Kirkus Reviews

Hippie Culture has made tremendous contributions to American society.  . . . Dougan wants to rally us . . . to organize and turn our pride into social and political action, as so many self-respecting American ethnic groups have done. He makes his argument in thorough, persuasive, and very readable detail. This is a rich, thought-provoking intellectual contribution. 

                     --Dr. Ira Chernus, Professor of Religious Studies, CU Boulder

Dougan’s thought-provoking style may move those who consider themselves to be Hippie-American into a new appreciation for and understanding of their identity.

                     --US Review of Books

First and foremost, I must commend you on your ability to craft a narrative that seamlessly blends education and entertainment. "Happily Hippie" takes readers on a captivating journey through the concept of modern ethnicity, exploring the intricate and often misunderstood aspects of this evolving cultural landscape. Your deep understanding and extensive research on the subject shine through every page, making the book a valuable resource for readers seeking to broaden their knowledge.
     Your writing style effortlessly engages the reader, striking a delicate balance between informative and thought-provoking. The clarity with which you articulate complex ideas and concepts is commendable, allowing readers to grasp the nuances of modern ethnicity with ease. Your ability to blend personal anecdotes with scholarly research adds a personal touch, making the content relatable and impactful.
     I was particularly impressed by your exploration of the challenges and triumphs faced by individuals navigating their identities in a multicultural society. Your empathetic and inclusive approach allows readers to connect with the stories of those who have embraced their modern ethnicities. Through their experiences, you shed light on the beauty and complexity of cultural diversity, fostering a sense of understanding and acceptance . . . .
     By delving into these topics, you encourage readers to critically examine their own perceptions and biases, sparking necessary conversations and promoting cultural sensitivity. Your ability to tackle such sensitive subjects with grace and respect is truly commendable.
     I believe Happily Hippie-American has the potential to captivate a wide range of readers, from individuals seeking to expand their cultural horizons to scholars interested in delving deeper into the subject. . . . 
    It [Happily Hippie-American] is a testament to your passion for cultural understanding and your dedication to fostering a more inclusive society. I have no doubt that your book will leave a lasting impact on readers, encouraging them to embrace and celebrate the richness of modern ethnicities. . . .

                 --Peter Johnson, Author Development Manager, StellarLiterary.com


(The following comments are excerpted from a questionnaire sent out by traditional publishers.)

I enjoyed the content and the writing style. From one who came of age during the sixties and seventies, it was both reminiscent and informative; and answered many questions. . . . This is an excellent benchmark reference in the evolution of the counterculture movement. . . . The book has a nice combination of cited research and conversational presentation.

               --Peter Jacobs

It is fascinating to view Hippies as an ethnic group. . . . The book is a great read, that gives Hippies legitimacy, purpose, meaning, and is a well-crafted account of the historical context and evolution of a social group that still exists today. . . . .Dougan’s writing style is a very compelling, often humorous, and this is seminal piece of work on this topic. . . . this would make a great movie or documentary.

               --Frank DiLallo

People will find it eye opening and help hippie types understand themselves. . . . this is a book that should be in every library.. . . A fairly original take on a subject of continuing interest.

                --Deandra Morgan

Highly recommend it. No one has written a book like this about Hippies. It’s much more in depth about what happened and what is happening now; and what is being called for in the future. . . . It’s unique and stirring, a call to greatness as human beings.

                 --Al Kassa

I am a hippie . . . This book speaks to me and for me, as explaining why and who I am in this world that often tries to put us in a box and make us like everyone else. 

                 --Kira Walker

Dougan makes his case plainly and clearly.  He uses numerous examples to validate his case that hippies are not social degenerates.  The group should be respected for their high level of achievements. Calling for the creation of an organization cements his goals with the book.

                --Jane Driscoll

Paul Dougan is a great writer and literally a genius!

              --Tink Hansen

The material about how hippies invented the personal computer was surprising. I doubted that at first but he made a believer out of me. The part about drugs, particularly marijuana, I could relate to. . . . A fresh look at something we’re all sort of familiar with but that hasn’t been written to death about. Nice cover.

              --Dennis Duffy 


                                                                             RADIO INTERVIEWS

Radio interview on Boulder’s KGNU in February of 2018: https://www.kgnu.org/apublicaffair/2/28/2018


With Ric Bratton (one interview, several sources):

http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/paudougan.mp3  https://open.spotify.com/show/4BmdTMgAZI4Sv1X5lyP5ij?si=m3irp7ZwS0qBxRcHxb5x6g
https://tunein.com/podcasts/Politics/This-Week-in-America-p172036/