Marilyn Thornton Schraff’s newest book, “Appalachian Journey,” picks up where her previous work, “Appalachian Childhood,” ended.

Filled with stories about 15 of Schraff’s personal heroes and heroines, “Appalachian Journey” is a testament to people who inspired Schraff throughout her life.

“The book is about people I admire,” she said. “These people made me a better person and Ohio and the world a better place to live. The book is also intended to dispel the thought that Appalachian people are uneducated.”

“Appalachian Journey” profiles 15 inspirational figures in Schraff’s life, such as Coy Bacon, a former professional football player who moved back to Ironton when he retired.

“Coy Bacon was active in the community,” Schraff said. “He dedicated his life to serving others and spreading his faith and he didn’t have to do that. These are the types of people who inspire me.”

Schraff also mentioned people such as Dorothy Lawless Malone, Sen. Oakley Collins, the late Sen. John Glenn, Norm Myers, David Kelly, former Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland and the Dickess sisters.

“I regret not letting these people know how much they inspired me,” Schraff said. “All the people in my book did things for other people, and the ones who are still alive still do.”

Copies of the book will be for sale for $20 during a book signing on Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Briggs Library, 321 South Fourth St., in Ironton.