Picture a storyteller who weaves tales of futuristic surveillance, quirky detectives, and nonprofit savvy—meet Erik Hanberg! A Tacoma-based author, elected park commissioner, and nonprofit coach, Hanberg’s diverse career blends gripping fiction with practical guides for small organizations. His knack for exploring technology’s impact on society and his engaging, accessible style make him a hidden gem in modern literature.
From dystopian sci-fi to cozy mysteries, Hanberg’s work captivates readers with its blend of wit, suspense, and insight. Whether you’re diving into his novels or learning from his nonprofit expertise, this multifaceted writer’s stories are as thought-provoking as they are entertaining.
The Making of Erik Hanberg
Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Erik Hanberg calls Tacoma, Washington, home, where he lives with his wife, Mary, and their two children. His early career in media and technology sparked a fascination with how humans interact with innovation, a theme that permeates his fiction. Hanberg’s writing journey began with a love for storytelling, honed through his work as a writer for Exit133.com, a hyper-local Tacoma blog, and as co-host of the Media Carnivores podcast with author Brent Hartinger. His role as an elected official on the Metro Parks Tacoma board for over 12 years reflects his commitment to community, which also informs his nonfiction work.
Erik Hanberg’s Unforgettable Stories
Hanberg’s fiction spans genres, but his science fiction and mystery novels stand out for their clever premises and relatable characters. His Lattice Trilogy, starting with The Lead Cloak (2013), is a gripping sci-fi adventure set in 2081, where privacy is extinct due to the Lattice, a surveillance system that lets users relive any moment or peer into anyone’s mind. The trilogy follows Colonel Byron Shaw as he grapples with the moral implications of this technology, earning praise from Kirkus Reviews for its “staggeringly smart” storytelling and thought-provoking dystopian themes.
In contrast, the Arthur Beautyman Mysteries series offers a lighter, cozy vibe. Starting with The Saints Go Dying (2010), the series follows Arthur Beautyman, a disgraced hacker-turned-detective, and his mother, Ruth, as they solve quirky cases in Minneapolis. Fans love the series for its lively pacing, twisty plots, and the charming mother-son dynamic of the Beautyman & Beautyman Detective Agency. Hanberg’s standalone novel, Semi/Human (2020), blends sci-fi and humor, following a teen’s heist in a robot-dominated future, showcasing his knack for blending action with social commentary.
Hanberg’s nonfiction is equally impactful, with books like The Little Book of Nonprofit Leadership and The Little Book of Boards selling over 10,000 copies. These practical guides empower small nonprofits with strategies for fundraising, governance, and social media, earning accolades from Forbes and LinkedIn for Nonprofits.
Why Erik Hanberg Matters
Erik Hanberg’s work resonates because it bridges entertainment and insight. His fiction tackles big questions—like privacy in a tech-driven world or the quirks of human connection—while remaining accessible and fun. The Lattice Trilogy challenges readers to rethink surveillance and freedom, while the Arthur Beautyman Mysteries offer a delightful escape with heart. His nonprofit guides have empowered countless small organizations, proving his influence extends beyond the page.
As an elected official and media entrepreneur, Hanberg’s community-driven ethos shines through, making him a unique voice in both literature and leadership. His ability to juggle genres and roles while staying true to his Tacoma roots makes him a writer worth discovering.
About Erik Hanberg
- Lives in Tacoma, Washington, with his wife and two children.
- Key works: The Lattice Trilogy, Arthur Beautyman Mysteries, Semi/Human, and The Little Book of Nonprofit Leadership.
- Served over 12 years on the Metro Parks Tacoma board.
- Co-founded Channel 253, a Tacoma-focused podcast network.
Ready for a thrilling ride through dystopian futures or cozy mysteries? Snag The Lead Cloak or The Saints Go Dying and dive into Erik Hanberg’s captivating world!