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John R. Erickson

1 series 63 books in order 1983–2008

John Richard Erickson, born on October 20, 1943, is an American author and cowboy known for writing the Hank the Cowdog series, a collection of children's novels. His work focuses on the adventures of a ranch dog named Hank, set on a cattle ranch. Erickson's writing is aimed at young readers and reflects his background in the cowboy lifestyle. He is recognized for creating a popular and enduring children's book series.

Born
1943
Active years
1983–2008
Known for
Hank the Cowdog

Series by John R. Erickson

Hank the Cowdog

63 books in order · 1983–2008

  1. Cover of The original adventures of Hank the Cowdog

    The original adventures of Hank the Cowdog

    1983 · John R. Erickson

    Hank the Cowdog, Head of Ranch Security, is accused of murdering a chicken. He is framed for the crime and forced to flee. As an outlaw, he joins…

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  2. Cover of The further adventures of Hank the Cowdog

    The further adventures of Hank the Cowdog

    1983 · John R. Erickson

    Hank the Cowdog almost loses his job as Head of Ranch Security when he develops a case of Eye-Crosserosis.

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  3. Cover of It's a dog's life

    It's a dog's life

    1985 · John R. Erickson

    Duped into thinking the world is coming to an end, Hank the Cowdog winds up in town for more adventures, including getting in and out of a case of…

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  4. Cover of Murder in the Middle Pasture

    Murder in the Middle Pasture

    1984 · John R. Erickson

    When a calf is murdered, Hank, a wily cowdog and head of ranch security, pursues a gang of wild dogs and a clan of coyotes to find the killer.

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  5. Cover of Faded Love

    Faded Love

    1985 · John R. Erickson

    Hank the Cowdog quits his job as head of ranch security and travels in search of adventure and romance.

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  6. Cover of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

    Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

    1986 · John R. Erickson

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  7. Cover of The curse of the incredible priceless corncob

    The curse of the incredible priceless corncob

    1986 · John R. Erickson

    While trying to outwit his arch enemy Pete the Barncat, Hank the Cowdog is duped into believing a worthless corncob will bring him fame and fortune.

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  8. Cover of The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse

    The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse

    1989 · John R. Erickson

    Hank the Cowdog goes to the rescue as a wild, one-eyed horse creates havoc on the ranch, but some of his outrageous stunts get him into more trouble…

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  9. Cover of The case of the Halloween ghost

    The case of the Halloween ghost

    1990 · John R. Erickson

    Hank the Cowdog has one of the scariest adventures of his life when he and his cowardly companion Drover find themselves in a strange and spooky…

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  10. Cover of Every dog has his day

    Every dog has his day

    1989 · John R. Erickson

    Hank the Cowdog gets into more and more trouble before he is able to find a happy solution to his problems.

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Show all 63 Hank the Cowdog books in order →

Frequently asked questions

How many books has John R. Erickson written?

We list 63 books by John R. Erickson across 1 series, published between 1983–2008 — each shown in full reading order.

What order should I read John R. Erickson's books?

Read each series in publication order. A good place to start is “The original adventures of Hank the Cowdog.” Open any series above for its complete numbered reading order.

Where can I buy John R. Erickson's books?

Every title links to Amazon from its series page. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

Bibliography and reading orders compiled from verified bibliographic data. Spotted an error? We continuously correct the catalog.