Creating a children’s book series at 52

Most people look forward to losing a job in mid-life as either a scramble for new employment (often at lower pay), or as early retirement, a time to slow down, relax, and maybe take up a new hobby. But for one Kansas-born artist, losing a job at an inconvenient time of life was just the beginning of a whole new career as a children’s book author.

In my latest video interview, I had the pleasure of talking with Jay Risner, who didn’t publish his first book until he was in his 60s. What started as a long-held idea turned into a full-blown series — 19 books (and counting) featuring a charming, slightly clueless, and entirely lovable bull.

Mr. Cow

The stories aren’t about grand adventures or wild fantasy. They’re about the everyday stuff kids find endlessly entertaining — building a swing, forgetting what you were supposed to be doing, fixing things with duct tape. Mr. Cow has a fun group of friends in the neighborhood to join in the adventure: Chuckles the Toad, Larry the Mailman, and the little girl next door. And the magic? Parents love them too. Especially dads.

In fact, that was the whole idea.

He always wanted to write books that dads would actually enjoy reading with their kids. And judging by the feedback he’s gotten — mission accomplished."

Growing up in Independence, Kansas, a town made famous by author Laura Ingalls Wilder, instilled in him a deep appreciation for simple pleasures, practical problem-solving, and animals with big personalities. He loved drawing and later became a graphic and web designer. While he pursued his art in his spare time, it wasn’t until the “plug was pulled” on his job at age 52 that he finally said, “If not now, when?”

Watch the first of three videos on YouTube, and look for two more that will appear at 11 a.m. Central Time on the History Bro OS Channel: https://youtu.be/4zEJwiao1pE. And be sure to Like, Subscribe, or Comment on the video as you watch.

Now, he’s not only writing these books — he’s illustrating them, too. And while the bull might bumble his way through projects, his stories are full of warmth, humor, and that quiet, everyday kind of joy that’s hard to fake.

Please find out more about Jay and Mr. Cow books (including where to find them) at mrcowbooks.com.