New Release!

Golden Teachers in the Hood

Book Cover for Golden Teachers in the Hood. Illustration of several golden glowing mushrooms tower over a cityscape under a crescent moon and starry night sky.

From the loud bustle of city life to the simple serenity of nature. This book is a resource of awakening, a shaman on a metaphorical and literal spirit journey. Your answers are already within, but this compilation of poems serves as a guide.

Ingest.

Wait.

Take a breath.

Let the unlearning begin.

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  • "Taru's words, spoken or written, carry a power of spirit and profoundness that orients self in the present"

    — Live or Die Trying Reader (Amazon Review)

  • "Taru was amazing!!! So much mindfulness wrapped in masterful writing. His insight is out of this world. I'm so glad I came out to support because if I missed this, I would have missed a poetry meal I needed to digest."

    -Yogi Jawn

  • "Taru's words hold so much weight yet create levity in the space. I could listen to him create landscapes with his words for eternity."

    -Khethiwe

  • "Taru is a mesmerizing human being. He captivates an audience. It goes beyond cadence... his spirit has the ability to transcend a room and bring us with him. "

    - Kenny

About the Author

Taru Marcellus

Author taru marcellus looks at camera with steady gaze while seated in front of a brick wall

Taru Marcellus is a certified trailblazer. As an educator, poet and host, he often speaks on topics of nature, mental health and the art of being present. Taru published his debut poetry collection, Die or Live Trying, in 2020. In 2023, he embarked on a solo cross-country cycling trip from New Orleans, Louisiana to Seattle, Washington. During his journey he graced countless stages sharing his gift of poetry nationwide.

Since returning to D.C., Taru has cemented himself as an integral part of the DMV open mic scene, hosting at BloomBars every first Friday.

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Cover image of the book Die of Live Trying which has a bountiful tree atop a reflection of its roots

Get Taru’s Debut Book

This compilation of poems is a commentary on life and the pursuit of happiness. These words are a call to action: to live and to live fully.

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This season feels different. A couple weeks ago I had my book launch and it’s been UP ever since (even before that frfr). The outpouring of love is SO FELT, from promotion to affirmations, from book purchases to hugs. I am beyond grateful for a
Today’s the day!! 5- 6:30pm. I have my first out-of-state book reading @nomadicbookshop I’m so excited to share “Golden Teachers in the Hood” with the Bay Area. Select readings. Select performances. Q&A. Tell a friend to t
On the first day of National Poetry Month… the floodgates opened. It’s time to Bloom 🪷 Gratitude for all the outpourings of opportunity 🙏🏾 From DC to Oakland to Baltimore, I’m really bout to be outside. Catch me at one or more o
This life is so blessed 😌 The eagle has landed!! Author copies are in and the first mailing is out. Gratitude to everyone who’s been part of this process. Gratitude to all the poets and platforms that have offered me space. Gratitude to each a