Marilyn Thornton Schraff is making her way back to Lawrence County to sign some books, show some art and to encourage students to write.

Schraff, now living in Cleveland, will be speaking to Rock Hill High School and Middle School students Friday, May 6, at 9:30 a.m. at the school, and she will have a book signing and art exhibit from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the high school library. The book singing and art exhibit are free and open to the public.

Schraff has written “Appalachian Childhood: Growing Up In Rural, Southern Ohio During the Mid-20th Century,” book about her upbringing in Kitts Hill and Ironton.

The book includes history, humor and plenty of stories from growing up in the area.

Schraff’s paintings, some award-winning, will be on display for the exhibit. One of the paintings has been exhibited on five different continents, a painting of Pres. Barack Obama. Schraff noted she never even had an art class during school.

Her writing began when she decided to answer questions her three granddaughters asked her.

“I hope to motivate the students to write and let them know anyone can write if I can,” Schraff said. “Anyone determined can get a good education to make something of themselves.”

Note-card prints of her paintings will be for sale at the exhibit and copies of the book will be available for $19, including tax. More information about Schraff can be found at www.watercolorsbymarilyn.com.

Schraff is currently working on a second book about moonshine. She is looking for anyone with information to help with her project.

“I am proud of how I grew up,” she said. “I am pleased that my parents cared enough to grow us fresh food and make our clothes. Having pride in who you are and where you came from is important no mater what life you choose. I feel blessed to come from Lawrence County.”