John R. Erickson

b. 1943

1 series 63 books in order

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
Known for: Hank the Cowdog

Series by John R. Erickson

Hank the Cowdog

63 books in order · 1983–2008

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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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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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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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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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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Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

1986 · John R. Erickson
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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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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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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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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 — see our affiliate disclosure in the footer for how that supports the site.

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