Born in Greenville, Ohio, Bill Harley is a two-time Grammy® award-winning artist who uses song and story to paint a vibrant and hilarious picture of growing up, schooling and family life. Recipient of the lifetime achievement award from RI Council for the Humanities "for building community; promoting our common humanity; and encouraging lifelong learning, exploring and growing", Bill tours nationwide as an author, performing artist and keynote speaker. Bill began singing and storytelling in 1975 while still in college. His work has influenced a generation of children, parents, performing artists and educators. Bill's songs are joyous, direct and honest, his stories are filled with the details of daily life - all told, written and sung from his slightly off-center point of view. "Humor is my weapon," says Harley of his work. Award-winning books and recordings are filled with his trademark wit and wisdom. Dubbed "the Mark Twain of contemporary children's music" by Entertainment Weekly, his recordings have won numerous prestigious awards including NARAS (Grammy), Parents' Choice, Oppenheimer Toy Portfolio and NAPPA (National Parenting Publications). His books - both picture books and novels, have won similar recognition with awards from: Bank Street School of Education, Children's Choice Awards, Green Earth Book Award and pick of the list from ABA. His latest book, a new series, Charlie Bumpers vs. The Teacher of the Year is a Junior Library Guild selection. Kirkus reviews says of the book "In this series opener, Harley magically weaves the simple lesson that people, even teachers, can surprise you."Appearing nationally in theaters, schools, libraries, festivals and conferences, as a workshop leader, keynote and inspirational speaker, Bill's work affirms our commonality and reminds us to laugh out loud. In the car, the classroom, at home or on stage, "Harley's witty ebullient performance will have listeners young and old laughing out loud." Publishers Weekly