About Groovin’

A delightful story of young adulthood in the late 1960s

In this spirited memoir of adventure and self-discovery, Rich Israel takes us on his journey during the tumultuous and transformative sixties. Eschewing societal norms, he hitchhikes across the country, tries his hand at mining, works at a circus, and rides a horse hundreds of miles through the Rocky Mountain wilderness—all the while, the draft and the Vietnam War are nipping at his heels.

Join Rich and his canine companion, Charlie, as they encounter one colorful character after another, from a rifle-toting hippie to a loudmouthed carnival boss to a sultry flower child, whose bewitching powers lead to lust and longing–and heartbreak. A consummate storyteller, Rich peppers his writing with wit and sensitivity, as well as insights often revealed through mind-blowing acid trips.

If you were there during this unique period in American history, Groovin’ is certain to spark treasured memories. If not, you will get to enjoy the flavor and exhilaration associated with catching that phenomenal wave.

Listen to a sample here

PRAISE

“The author is a highly skilled storyteller—he describes each scene and person so well that the reader feels he was actually present. The book itself is inviting with meaningful quotes at the beginning of each part, some artwork, and a few photographs. The dialogue is crisp and well-placed . . . The reader is engaged from the first page to the last. Mr. Israel notes that this book is the first of a series he is calling The Hippie Adventurer Series. Looking forward to the next one!” 5 STARS—Readers’ Favorite

“Israel’s flowing memoir . . . is well organized, recounting the laughs, the sensuality, the highs and the sometimes very real danger he indulged in without apparent residual regret or embarrassment. He was always ready to move to the next happening, loveliest or mountaintop trail, as befit the era and the ethos. With a sequel in the works, Groovin’ is poised to attract a tuned-in readership of former (and current) hippies, and armchair ’60s fans seeking a contact high.” RECOMMENDED.—US Review of Books

“Readers seeking an evocative, ‘you are there’ feel to a series of often-zany 1960s encounters will relish the tone and presentation of Groovin’, a saga of hippie days gone wild.”—​Midwest Book Review

AWARDS

About the Author

Rich Israel was born in December 1945. The baby boomer generation officially began January 1, 1946, so Rich says, “I was sent ahead as a scout to prepare the way.” Raised in Sacramento, he spent his college years at the University of California, Davis, campus, where he initially studied engineering . . . READ MORE