About Bill Harley
Humor, empathy, intelligence and reality all radiate from his work and from him.”
Although he showed an early love of baseball (and wanted to become second baseman for the Cincinnati Reds), Bill began singing and storytelling in 1975, while still in college.
The son of a children’s writer and a law book editor, Bill is a dedicated author, winning the hearts of thousands of young readers and numerous awards with his picture books and novels.
photo credit: Suzanne Blakely Photography
A two-time Grammy winner, he is vibrant, outrageous, unpredictable and genuine with songs and stories about growing up, schooling and what it is to be human—our connections with one another and with the planet we share.
Best known for his work with children and families, his ability to navigate through a confusing world with humor and wisdom is evident in his masterful storytelling, singing, recordings and books.
photo credit: Andrew Wardlow | Times Georgian
Recognized by audiences and peers as one of the finest performing storytellers in the country, his work has influenced a generation of children, parents, performing artists and educators.
In presenting Bill with a Lifetime Achievement Award, the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities noted the core of his work as:
...building community; promoting our common humanity; and encouraging lifelong learning, exploring and growing.
Bill tours internationally as a performing artist,
author and keynote speaker.
When not traveling, you’ll find Bill at home in Seekonk, Massachusetts with his wife and professional partner Debbie Block, two beehives and their Border Collie, Django.
With his guitar and songs, his books and stories, Bill Harley celebrates our common humanity.
