harshman published his first poetry book, "turning out the stones" in 1983, and his first children’s book, "a little excitement", in 1989. marc harshman has published multiple collections of poetry and received a smithsonian award for his children’s book, "the storm" (1995). in 2012, after the death of irene mckinney, west virginia’s former poet laureate, harshman was appointed as the ninth poet laureate of west virginia. harshman continues to do workshops and puts on a radio show called “the poetry break” which was first aired in january 2016. marc harshman’s experience allows him to explore a wide array of themes, which can be seen in his various collections of poetry. harshman’s work is often a reflection of his upbringing and he has been seen as one of the individuals that are revitalizing poetry in west virginia.