Customer Reviews

Story Craft: Reflections on Faith, Culture, and Writing from the Author of Hank the Cowdog

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John R. Erickson provides writers and all people of faith a treasure trove of wisdom, insight, and felicity. The author explains the reasons he became a writer and the process mingled patience he employed to become a best-selling author. He tells the reader how he creates his themes and characters as he dispenses practical ideas on publishing a successful book.

Erickson discusses:
- Calling
- Art
- Crafting stories
- Creating and forming captivating and believable characters

This is a necessary and delightful read for all budding writers and fans of Hank the Cowdog.
There Are Moral Absolutes: How to Be Absolutely Sure That Christianity Alone Supplies

If you've ever wondered how Hank came to be, or what his author suffered to bring him to us, or what happened when giant media companies clashed with him, or would like to hear some of the good things that have come from the Hank books, or if you are interested in writing tips from this wonderful author, then please check out this book. It's an easy read, but contains an amazing amount of wisdom. I liked finding out which university Erickson attended where he found the writing classes worthless (it's where we send our daughters) and what breed of dog Hank was based on (we have had 3 of them). I'm recommending this to all my friends who enjoy Hank.

If you are a fan of Hank, the first part of this book offers an interesting look at the creation of the loveable characters and insight into the complicated man behind the popular series. For writers, this book provides thought-provoking views on the craft of writing through one man's experience in the publishing world, and common-sense advice writers of every level will find useful. This book is inspiring and I think writers of any genre will find the information invaluable.

John Erickson, who's known most for his very succesful Hank The Cowdog, shares a few of his secrets. No, more like, reveals the secrets of writing. This man is brilliant, having interpreted the art, and faith behind stories. There's not much more to say, except that I now look on writing with a different view now, thanks to the work of John Erickson.
I reccomend this to anyone interested in writing, ESPECIALLY from an aspect of trying to get a set of morals/ideas worked into the story.

In the never-ending search to find good books on the art of writing, especially Christian writing, I stumbled upon this gem of a book some months ago. John Erickson's creation of "Hank The Cowdog" (a remarkable "dog" living on a ranch in West Texas) has long been a fascination by bringing the reader along with a simple, charming story that captivates the heart with a lesson that touches the soul. This book, however, is Erickson's approach to the art of story-craft that goes far beyond the mechanics of writing and publishing.He does that, of course, but more than that. He allows us to understand that the art of Christian writing is much more than technique. It is an activity of the soul where we use godly talents to craft a story honoring our creator.

Well done, John! Truly, your outstanding book enobles all of us to become servant-writers for the greatest wordsmith of all - the God of the universe!

It is always good to hear and learn from someone who has been through the process. The author shares his journey - the mistakes, revelations, and successes. He shows the great responsibility that an author has to his readers. He shares all the good stuff he learned over the years that helped and kept him going. I really could not put this book down. It was well-written, a pleasure to read, and informative. My children will be reading this to help them with their writing aspirations.