🎯 Where Should I Start?
ⓘ About John R. Erickson
John R. Erickson is an American author best known for writing the Hank the Cowdog series. The long-running series features a smelly and smart-aleck cowdog who is the Head of Ranch Security. The children’s books have sold over seven million copies and give the readers a unique look at what daily life on a ranch in the West Texas Panhandle is like. Erickson was born in Midland, Texas on October 20, 1943. He was the youngest of three children. Early in his life, his family moved to Perryton, Texas where he still lives to this day. Erickson and his wife live in Perryton on a cattle ranch. The couple has three children and four grandchildren. He came up with the Hank the Cowdog series when he first got Hank into the pages of The Cattleman. Rising to prominence with the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, John R. Erickson has since expanded their repertoire to include numerous successful works across various genres. Their writing style, characterized by compelling narratives and memorable characters, has earned them a dedicated global readership with millions of fans worldwide.
📚 All Book Series by John R. Erickson
The Original Adventures of Hank the Cowdog
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Original Adventures of Hank the Cowdog, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Further Adventures of Hank the Cowdog
The Further Adventures of Hank the Cowdog is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
It's a Dog's Life
It's a Dog's Life continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Murder in the Middle Pasture
A gripping mystery unfolds in Murder in the Middle Pasture as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series showcases John R. Erickson's mastery of suspense.
Faded Love
Faded Love explores the depths of love and connection in this compelling entry of the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series by John R. Erickson.
Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
Let Sleeping Dogs Lie continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Curse of the Incredible Priceless Corncob
The Curse of the Incredible Priceless Corncob continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse
A gripping mystery unfolds in The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series showcases John R. Erickson's mastery of suspense.
The Case of the Halloween Ghost
The Case of the Halloween Ghost is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Every Dog Has His Day
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with Every Dog Has His Day, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Lost in the Dark Unchanted Forest
Lost in the Dark Unchanted Forest continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Fiddle Playing Fox
The Case of the Fiddle Playing Fox continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Wounded Buzzard on Christmas Eve
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Wounded Buzzard on Christmas Eve, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Hank the Cowdog and Monkey Business
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with Hank the Cowdog and Monkey Business, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Missing Cat
The Case of the Missing Cat is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Lost in the Blinded Blizzard
Lost in the Blinded Blizzard continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Car-Barkaholic Dog
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Car-Barkaholic Dog, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Hooking Bull
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Hooking Bull, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Midnight Rustler
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Midnight Rustler, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Phantom in the Mirror
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Phantom in the Mirror, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Vampire Cat
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Vampire Cat, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Moonlight Madness
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with Moonlight Madness, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Black-hooded Hangmans
The Case of the Black-hooded Hangmans is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Kidnapped Collie
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Kidnapped Collie, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Night-Stalking Bone Monster
The Case of the Night-Stalking Bone Monster continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Mopwater Files
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Mopwater Files, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Vampire Vacuum Sweeper
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Vampire Vacuum Sweeper, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Haystack Kitties
The Case of the Haystack Kitties continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Vanishing Fishhook
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Vanishing Fishhook, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Garbage Monster from Outer Space
The Case of the Garbage Monster from Outer Space is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Measled Cowboy
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Measled Cowboy, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Slim's Good-bye
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with Slim's Good-bye, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Saddlehouse Robbery
The Case of the Saddlehouse Robbery is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Raging Rottweiler
The Case of the Raging Rottweiler continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Fling
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Fling, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Missing Bird Dog
The Case of the Missing Bird Dog continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Tales and Tunes from Hank the Cowdog
Tales and Tunes from Hank the Cowdog is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Shipwrecked Tree
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Shipwrecked Tree, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Burrowing Robot
The Case of the Burrowing Robot is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Twisted Kitty
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Twisted Kitty, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Dungeon of Doom
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Dungeon of Doom, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Homeless Pooch
The Homeless Pooch is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Falling Sky
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Falling Sky, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Watermelon Patch Mystery
The Watermelon Patch Mystery continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Tender Cheeping Chickies
The Case of the Tender Cheeping Chickies continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Monkey Burglar
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Monkey Burglar, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Kitty Cheater
The Kitty Cheater is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Blazing Sky
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Blazing Sky, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Quest for the Great White Quail
Epic adventure awaits in The Quest for the Great White Quail, a landmark entry in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series that raises the stakes across the realm John R. Erickson has built.
The Cookie Moon
The Cookie Moon is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Drover's Secret Life
Drover's Secret Life continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Dinosaur Birds
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Dinosaur Birds, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Secret Weapon
The Case of the Secret Weapon continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Coyote Invasion
The Case of the Coyote Invasion is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Dancing Cowboy
The Dancing Cowboy is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Valentine's Day Robbery
The Valentine's Day Robbery is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Perfect Dog
The Case of the Perfect Dog continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Runaway Windmill
The Runaway Windmill continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Mysterious Voice
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Mysterious Voice, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Big Question
Epic adventure awaits in The Big Question, a landmark entry in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series that raises the stakes across the realm John R. Erickson has built.
The Disappearance of Drover
The Disappearance of Drover is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Most Ancient Bone
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Most Ancient Bone, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Booby-Trapped Pickup
The Case of the Booby-Trapped Pickup continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Tricky Trap
The Case of the Tricky Trap continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Prowling Bear
The Case of the Prowling Bear is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Deadly Ha-Ha Game
A gripping mystery unfolds in The Case of the Deadly Ha-Ha Game as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series showcases John R. Erickson's mastery of suspense.
The Secret Laundry Monster Files
The Secret Laundry Monster Files is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Swirling Killer Tornado
A gripping mystery unfolds in The Case of the Swirling Killer Tornado as the investigation takes deadly new turns. This installment of the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series showcases John R. Erickson's mastery of suspense.
The Case of the Double Bumblebee Sting
The Case of the Double Bumblebee Sting is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Ghost of Rabbits Past
The Ghost of Rabbits Past is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Return of the Charlie Monsters
The Return of the Charlie Monsters continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Three Rings
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Three Rings, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Three Rings
The Three Rings continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Almost Last Roundup
The Almost Last Roundup continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Christmas Turkey Disaster
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Christmas Turkey Disaster, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Wagons West
Wagons West is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Secret Pledge
The Secret Pledge continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Wandering Goats
The Case of the Wandering Goats is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Troublesome Lady
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Case of the Troublesome Lady, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Monster Fire
The Case of the Monster Fire continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Three-Toed Sloth
The Case of the Three-Toed Sloth continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Buried Deer
The Case of the Buried Deer is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Frozen Rodeo
The Frozen Rodeo continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Case of the Red Rubber Ball
The Case of the Red Rubber Ball is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Missing Teeth
The Case of the Missing Teeth is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Lost Camp
The Case of the Lost Camp is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Incredible Ice Event
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with The Incredible Ice Event, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Double Trouble
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books with Double Trouble, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Case of the Airborne Invasion
The Case of the Airborne Invasion is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
The Case of the Poison Toad
The Case of the Poison Toad continues the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Cowboys and Horses
Cowboys and Horses is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank's Ranch Life Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Ranching and Livestock
Ranching and Livestock is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Hank's Ranch Life Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Ranch Wildlife
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank's Ranch Life Books with Ranch Wildlife, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Ranch Weather
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Hank's Ranch Life Books with Ranch Weather, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Moonshiner's Gold
Moonshiner's Gold continues the Publication Order of Riley McDaniels Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Discovery at Flint Springs
Discovery at Flint Springs continues the Publication Order of Riley McDaniels Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Fear's Return
Fear's Return continues the Publication Order of Riley McDaniels Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
The Hunter
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with The Hunter, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Ace Reid Cowpoke
Ace Reid Cowpoke is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Cowboy Country
Cowboy Country is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Standalone Novels series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Cowboys Are A Separate Species
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Cowboys Are A Separate Species, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Cowboys Are Old Enough to Know Better
Cowboys Are Old Enough to Know Better continues the Publication Order of Standalone Novels story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Cowboy Fiddler in Bob Wills' Band
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Standalone Novels with Cowboy Fiddler in Bob Wills' Band, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Through Time and the Valley
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books with Through Time and the Valley, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Panhandle Cowboy
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books with Panhandle Cowboy, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
The Modern Cowboy
The Modern Cowboy is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Essays on Writing and Publishing
Essays on Writing and Publishing continues the Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
LZ Cowboy
LZ Cowboy is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Some Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books with Some Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Catch Rope
Catch Rope is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Friends
Friends is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Prairie Gothic
Prairie Gothic continues the Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books story arc with John R. Erickson's signature blend of plot twists and unforgettable characters.
Story Craft
Story Craft is an essential installment in the Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books series, delivering the tension and character depth that fans of John R. Erickson have come to expect.
Finding Hank
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books with Finding Hank, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
Bad Smoke, Good Smoke
Readers dive deeper into the world of Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books with Bad Smoke, Good Smoke, another outstanding contribution from John R. Erickson.
? Frequently Asked Questions
Who is John R. Erickson?
John R. Erickson is a bestselling author known for 5 book series containing over 115 books. Popular series include Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books, Publication Order of Hank's Ranch Life Books, Publication Order of Riley McDaniels Books. Their work spans multiple genres and has captivated millions of readers worldwide.
What is the best John R. Erickson series to start with?
For readers new to John R. Erickson's work, the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series is the ideal entry point. It showcases the author's signature style and contains 90 books. Begin with The Original Adventures of Hank the Cowdog to start from the very beginning.
How many books has John R. Erickson written?
John R. Erickson has written over 115 books across 5 series. This prolific output covers multiple genres, making them one of the most versatile authors in contemporary fiction.
Should I read John R. Erickson books in order?
Yes, reading John R. Erickson's series in publication order is strongly recommended. Most series feature evolving character arcs, ongoing story threads, and references to earlier events that are most rewarding when experienced in sequence. Our complete reading order guides are listed above.
What genre does John R. Erickson write in?
John R. Erickson writes primarily in fiction. With 5 series across 115 books, the author has explored a wide range of themes and storytelling approaches throughout their career.
Are John R. Erickson's books standalone or must they be read as a series?
Most of John R. Erickson's books are part of ongoing series and deliver the most satisfying experience when read in order. However, several standalone novels and short story collections provide excellent entry points without requiring prior knowledge of other series.
What is John R. Erickson's most popular book?
Based on reader reviews and sales data, John R. Erickson's most celebrated works come from the Publication Order of Hank the Cowdog Books series. The first book, The Original Adventures of Hank the Cowdog, is widely considered the ideal starting point and consistently receives outstanding reader ratings.