'Hank the Cowdog' author John Erickson meets with readers

Michael Cuviello, Amarillo Globe-News
·2 min read
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Notable author of the "Hank the Cowdog” book series, John R. Erickson, held a book signing Thursday at the Burrowing Owl Books store in Amarillo, drawing more than 100 excited readers of the popular children’s book.

John Erickson, author of "Hank the Cowdog," signs a book for fans Thursday at the Burrowing Owl bookstore in Amarillo.
John Erickson, author of "Hank the Cowdog," signs a book for fans Thursday at the Burrowing Owl bookstore in Amarillo.

The "Hank the Cowdog" series was begun in 1982 by Erickson, a Perryton, Texas native, which now spans over 79 different adventures of the self-proclaimed head of ranch security. Children of all ages lined up to meet the series' creator and share a picture with him.

The Bradbury family enjoys their meeting Thursday with John Erickson, author of the popular "Hank the Cowdog" book series, at the Burrowing Owl bookstore in Amarillo.
The Bradbury family enjoys their meeting Thursday with John Erickson, author of the popular "Hank the Cowdog" book series, at the Burrowing Owl bookstore in Amarillo.

Erickson said that it was a great feeling to have so many families to come out and visit with him.

“I struggled in the beginning to find an audience, and to see that I am now in my second and third generation of readers that enjoy my book just gives me a great feeling,” Erickson said.

Kris Erickson, wife of "Hank the Cow Dog" author John Erickson, sits with a fan Thursday at the Burrowing Owl Books store in Amarillo.
Kris Erickson, wife of "Hank the Cow Dog" author John Erickson, sits with a fan Thursday at the Burrowing Owl Books store in Amarillo.

Asked why his "Hank the Cowdog" series has resonated so long with readers for more than 40 years, Erickson said he believes it is the innocent humor that is portrayed in his books.

“I believe the nature of humor is just innocent humor without any anger or ridicule; it’s a kind of humor that is hard to find right now,” Erickson said. “I think people long for something peaceful and innocent that will allow both children and adults to laugh. Humor comes naturally with dogs, and I have spent much time with them watching them. It’s a gift from God."

Aubrey and her son Adler Ball stood in line with her son, excited to meet one of his favorite authors which he has read many times.

Aubrey Ball and her son Adler wait in line Thursday to meet John Erickson, author of "Hank the Cowdog," at the Burrowing Owl Books store in Amarillo.
Aubrey Ball and her son Adler wait in line Thursday to meet John Erickson, author of "Hank the Cowdog," at the Burrowing Owl Books store in Amarillo.

“I find Hank funny; he is a good dog," Adler Ball said.

Andrew and Danial Kaluza stood in line with their mom to meet the author with smiles on their faces.

The Kaluza family waits to meet John Erickson, author of "Hank the Cowdog," Thursday at Burrowing Owl Books in Amarillo.
The Kaluza family waits to meet John Erickson, author of "Hank the Cowdog," Thursday at Burrowing Owl Books in Amarillo.

“I think the 'Hank the Cowdog' character is really funny. He thinks he is really tough, but he is not,” Danial Kaluza said.

Andrew said that his favorite book in the series was “The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse,” and he had read more than 20 of the books.

“We as a family love the books; it is so exciting to meet the man that created this character that my sons love,” Holly Kaluza said.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: 'Hank the Cowdog' author John Erickson meets with readers