Marc Harshman

State: West Virginia

Born in 1950 and serving as West Virginia’s Poet Laureate since 2012, Marc Harshman is a poet, children’s author, and educator. Growing up in rural Indiana and later moving to West Virginia, he holds degrees in religion and theology. Harshman has published a wide range of work—from lyrical adult poetry collections such as Believe What You Can to award-winning children’s books like The Storm and A Little Excitement. He teaches creative writing, conducts workshops in schools, and hosts regionally-focused poetry events and radio programs. Highly regarded for connecting Appalachian landscapes with emotional insight, Harshman champions poetry’s role in community, education, and personal reflection. His work resonates across age groups, making literature accessible to readers of all backgrounds.

Genres: Nonfiction, Picture Book, Poetry

Audiences: Adult, All Ages, Children's