William Carl Hobbs

I have such sweet memories of reading Will Hobbs' books to my daughter (now 19) when she was younger. I met him at a couple of book signings and he was so gracious. A couple of our favorites, Howling Hill, and Kokopelli's Flute. I like to re-read Kokopelli's Flute every now and then for the great messages it holds.

Will was a great friend to the Durango Public Library. We put up a display of his books for a few weeks to honor him. Members of the community took the opportunity to spontaneously leave a few little notes of remembrance on the display. I'd like to share them here: "You were a good neighbor when you live on 502, Will! I loved using your books when teaching middle school." "Mr. Hobbs was my English teacher - I am 50 years old this year - he was an awesome teacher and let me read Stephen...

I did not know Will Hobbs personally only through his books. His books especially Kokopelli's Flute was one of our favorites. I really enjoyed reading his obituary and his love of nature and the indigenous people of this land. He lived a good life!

A hero as well as a friend! Good memories of Will and Jean!

Mr. Hobbs was my 8th grade Language Arts teacher. He had a gift for making school fun and making everyone feel welcome in his class. I was very shy back then and I always appreciated his kindness and understanding. I can only hope I will be able to have as much of an impact on my students as he did on me.

What I will miss most about Will Hobbs?...His humor, great storytelling & writing, creativity, inspiration, friendship - the list is endless. My last lengthy sit-down with Will was in November. He invited me to pick up lunch at SAGE and allowed me to haul approximately 50 books (he authored) to his home for his signatures. For 3 hours, he thoughtfully signed each book while elaborating on the story of its setting and origin. Each 'telling' with the enthusiasm in which it was written. I...

Great Teacher!!

I thank Will Hobbs for teaching me how to be a raft guide and for the memories of rafting on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. The most notable trip was in 1983 when the river was flowing at epic levels and the dam was in jeopardy of breaching. What an experience that was! I am also thankful that our two boys got to grow up reading his adventure novels. He was their favorite author. Thank you Will for being an inspiration in my life.

Condolences. As an author Will was very influential in my life and my relationship with my son. Thank you Will Hobbs.