Rooster Morris - Becoming A Writer

Becoming A Writer

In 1999, Rooster opened for children's author John R. Erickson during a public event in Lubbock, Texas. The response of the audience to Mr. Erickson's reading moved Rooster to become acquainted with the Hank the Cowdog series. He spoke with John, who encouraged him to learn some of the songs and voices so he could do Hank the Cowdog programs in schools. Rooster soon learned the songs and voices from Mr. Erickson's audio books and, in a business agreement with Mr. Erickson, began performing solo Hank the Cowdog shows, ultimately reaching over two million people over the next three years. The enthusiasm of the children to the performances, as well as the positive influence Rooster could see the performances were having on their reading, convinced him to begin writing his own books. His school and community performances now highlight his own Axle Galench books, and include music, storytelling, and writing workshop components.