“Just an Old Hippie” by Garry Huff crafts a poignant coming-of-age narrative that follows the tumultuous journey of Jack Benson, a teenager who is forced to flee his abusive home after a tragic confrontation with his father. Proudly published by Citi of Books, this book is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retail platforms.
Garry Huff was born in 1952 and served in the military. He started writing in his later years.
In “Just an Old Hippie,” the main character, Jack, embarks on a quest for safety and self-discovery, setting the stage for a transformative adventure that will challenge his understanding of love, loyalty, and identity. As he hitchhikes south in the rain, he encounters David and his sister, Cricket, who introduce him to a vibrant counterculture filled with music, marijuana, and fleeting connections. Their colorful van becomes a sanctuary for Jack, offering a temporary escape from his troubled past.
However, the budding relationship between Jack and Cricket is complicated by a moment of emotional misstep when Jack inadvertently calls her “Joyce” during an intimate encounter. This slip not only highlights Jack’s unresolved feelings for his first love but also serves as a catalyst for tension within the group, forcing Jack to confront his past while navigating the complexities of new relationships.
Upon arriving at a hippie commune in the South, Jack finds himself immersed in a world that is both liberating and fraught with challenges. Here, he meets Kim, a nurse with her own complicated history, and becomes entangled in the commune’s dynamics, particularly with Tom, the manipulative leader.
As Jack explores these new connections, he grapples with his own trauma and the lingering effects of his violent past. The commune represents a double-edged sword, offering the potential for healing while also exposing Jack to the risks of a lifestyle that can be as chaotic as it is liberating.
As he navigates the complexities of his new life among strangers, Jack learns that the path to self-acceptance is often fraught with challenges, but it is also filled with moments of joy, connection, and the possibility of redemption. This compelling narrative invites readers to reflect on their own journeys of growth and the transformative power of love and community.
Throughout “Just an Old Hippie,” Garry Huff deftly weaves themes of trauma, escape, love, and self-discovery against the backdrop of 1970s counterculture. Jack’s journey is not just about physical survival; it is a quest for emotional healing and personal reinvention.
“Just an Old Hippie” by Garry Huff is now available for purchase through the links provided below:
1 Comment
Garry Huff’s *Just an Old Hippie* sounds like it could speak to a generation that’s seen a lot of change. Looking forward to learning more about the story behind the title—it definitely has a reflective vibe.