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"Bill Harley has the uncanny ability to reaffirm life for listeners, be they five or fifty. Humor, empathy, intelligence and reality all radiate from his work and from him." - Penguin Books A Grammy award winning artist, Bill uses song and story paint a vibrant and hilarious picture of growing up, schooling and family life. His work spans the generation gap, reminds us of our common humanity and challenges us to be our very best selves. A prolific author and recording artist, Bill is also a regular commentator for NPR's All Things Considered and featured on PBS. Harley joined the National Storytelling Network's Circle of Excellence in 2001 and tours nationwide as an author and performing artist. With these considerable talents, Bill considers his real work to be using these skills to encourage his audience to see the world anew and to experience "live art", to honor the emotional lives of children and adults and finally, to pass along a love of language and music. "Bill Harley takes his life and turns it into art. Sounds simple until you actually try to do it. That Harley's art seems so effortless only underscore his mastery." - Nuvo Newsweekly Praise for Down in the Backpack: 'Of course, parents will appreciate the fact that the guitar toting Harley not only seems innately tuneful, he's been around long enough to cultivate an interest in a pleasing variety of folk and pop music styles.' The Washington Post 'When he's not making kids laugh, Harley shares his observations of the world - about tolerance and about peace' Publishers Weekly 'You will find yourself tapping your feet and singing along to these original songs. Do not miss this one!' Georgia Family Magazine 'Throughout, he always rings true, proving he's still one of the best when it comes to expressing a kid's-eye view of uncertainties, hopes, pet peeves and pleasures.' Los Angeles Times 'When national treasure Bill Harley releases a new kids' album, it's good reason to celebrate.' Family Fun Magazine.