An invitation from Ace Reid to come visit to see if they were compatible to work together was the beginning of this book. Author John R. Erickson’s three-day visit to Draggin ‘S Ranch outside of Kerrville, Texas, turned into three weeks and then three months. Mr. Erickson spent this time interviewing people who knew Mr. Reid, reviewing newspaper scrapbooks and photographs, and spending time with Ace Reid himself. A kind of autobiography supplemented with stories, truths and astonishing works of art has been assembled within the pages of this book that is synonymous with the Ace Reid name.

Ace Reid Cowpoke is sharing his life with the rest of the world. An interpretation that is both serious and funny about the man who was a cartoonist, public speaker, artist, joker and cowboy. This book gives the reader a front row seat in the life of the artist on his way to fame.

The author takes you from the time of Mr. Reid’s birth to the 1980s, when the interview for the book took place. School years, ranching with his father, time in the Navy and days on the road promoting his work; all the while he was honing his skills as a well-known and respected artist / cartoonist. Erickson has done an excellent job of introducing the man who has brought the reality of the Western lifestyle to people around the world. Through your cartoon books, calendars, and note cards; all depicting some form of dry and witty western humor, Ace Reid’s outlook on life is self-evident and the words in this book confirm it.

An observation of the work done by this artist is that if you look at the painting and have lived it or know someone who has lived it, you will see the humor in them. If you have no idea what is happening in the picture, maybe these cartoon books are not for you yet.

Take the time to read Ace Reid Cowpoke and get to know the man, his life, and his humor. The understanding of the lanky stature cowboy with the muscular face named Jake, made famous in the Ace Reid cartoons, is sure to follow.