Writing to Give Back
Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt, M.Ed., seeks to support community initiatives and non-profits while promoting writing as an art. From her Central Virginia home, she pens award-winning poems, articles, flash fiction and books published independently and traditionally. Read more about this prolific author and her work.
Support Community Giving
An avid volunteer and believer in giving back, Katherine Gotthardt uses proceeds from her book sales and creative workshops to support nonprofits and community giving initiatives. Sponsors and partners are also encouraged to participate. There are many ways to sponsor and/or partner. Business owners, consider buying books at wholesale prices or carrying Katherine's books on consignment. Reach out for details: poet @ katherinegotthardt.com
The World Has Changed From When I Last Was Here
NEW! Multi-award-winning poet and author Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt tells a story, one too familiar to those who have been marginalized within systems not built for them. The World Has Changed from When I Last Was Here is an epic depiction of late-stage capitalism’s impact on the individual. But it is also a poetic blueprint for moving toward peace through nature’s quiet capacity to heal.
We All Might Be Witches
AWARD WINNER! What if the world – and everyone in it – were more magical than we thought? That is the premise of this illustrated chapbook of micropoems (MacKenzie Publishing, 2023) inspired by Gotthardt’s adult son who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other disabilities. All proceeds from We All Might Be Witches benefit programs serving youth with autism, emotional and/or cognitive disabilities.
Thirty Years of Cardinals Calling
FROM SAN FRANCISCO BAY PRESS! The cardinal has long been a spiritual symbol, one of messages sent by divine power, and much lore surrounds this iconic, vibrant bird whose colors and voice evoke emotion, memories and meaning. Thirty Years of Cardinals Calling represents all the cardinal embodies, alongside Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt’s past thirty years of publishing poetry. Proceeds benefit community give-back initiatives.
Get Happier, Dammit
AWARD WINNER! A handbook for creating greater happiness by building inspiration and motivation. Each short chapter includes an essay, exercises and poetry designed for creatives, caregivers and anyone who wants to increase quality of life. Get Happy, Dammit and Get Happier, Dammit have won the hearts and minds of readers seeking something different. Proceeds benefit non-profits and community initiatives.
A Crane Named Steve
AMAZON BESTSELLER! An illustrated, epic children's poem featuring a young child who is told the family needs to move and who finds comfort from an unusual friend - a crane who holds a real-life backstory. With full color illustrations and a coloring book version, this story delights all audiences. Proceeds from A Crane Named Steve benefit charities in the greater Prince William, Virginia area.
The Latest
News Corner
Readings - Katherine recently read from her newest work and facilitated workshops at Write In Louisa held at Louisa Arts Center and Richmond Writers held at Goochland Library.
Awards - Katherine's poem "Sometimes, this is all I need" placed in the top 10 in the competitive and popular international contest sponsored by Poetry Super Highway. The poem is included in Katherine's forthcoming book, The World Has Changed from When I Last Was Here.Â
We All Might Be Witches received a first-place 2024 BookFest award in the modern poetry category.
Publications:
- "Anniversary of a First Date" is forthcoming in The Zest of the Lemon anthology.Â
- Haikuniverse published Katherine's haiku.
- Ruby's Lyric published "Rules for Myself," "Painting the Door" and "Letter Home."
- "Because We Don't Entirely Trust Doctors" has been published by Empyrean Literary Journal.
Projects and Events
Write In Louisa launched - The Louisa Arts Center has graciously sponsored a writers group serving Louisa County, Virginia, and beyond. Founded in November 2024 by Katherine, Write In Louisa meets the first Wednesday of the month at 2 PM in the Purcell Gallery. Register for the next meeting, and Follow Write In Louisa on Facebook.