Local author Jean Marlowe will read from her new book, "Smoky Mountain Secrets: Folk Remedies for the Nature Lover" which collects 46 native plants and information on how to locate, identify, harvest and prepare them for medicinal.

Just as Horrace Kephart’s Camping and Woodcraft gave a how-to-guide for outdoorsman, Jean Marlowe’s "Smoky Mountain Secrets" gives readers an easy to follow tutorial of how, for generations, the Cherokee and Appalachian settlers used the plentiful natural plants of this great land for all kinds of ailments and treatments. Many of the medicines today, albeit chemical versions, are still derived from the knowledge of what our ancestors learned years ago. Many of the folks in Western North Carolina still use the remedies that Miss Marlowe has compiled into this concise book plus Jean takes it a step further and shares traditions that were passed down to her with instructions and guidance on how to best prepare, care for and transform these natural herbs into medicinal use. In addition to these wonderful writings, Ms. Marlowe has also dedicated much of her life and time to advocating for patients rights to treat themselves with the natural medicines provided by our Creator. This is something that Jean believes so passionately in that she has made sacrifices that many of us could not imagine. Jean not only possesses the wisdom and knowledge but also the courage to fight for the beliefs that were instilled upon her from a young age. I am so thankful for Jean’s vision and look forward to her continued journey down this path of bringing awareness to the insights that our ancestors learned generations ago. Once you get a chance to know Jean and her writings, I think you will agree. Kevin & Ann Beauchesne, Bryson City, NC.

About Jean Marlowe

Jean Marlowe is a mother and grandmother, business-owner, entrepreneur, civil and human rights advocate and nature lover. She lives in the beautiful Smoky Mountains of western North Carolina with her dog Foxy and cat Siley. She has been featured in numerous media sources including newspaper, film, radio, television (including CNN, Wolf Blitzer, MSNBC, Nancy Grace & WLOS, WSPA, and WYFF-TV). She was featured in a documentary produced by Open Democracy and directed by journalist Charles Shaw, entitled “The Unheard Voices Project”. She has been in numerous magazines including Verve Magazine, Sage Woman, High Times, Cannabis Culture, Skunk Magazine’s 100 Women of Weed. She is a speaker, lecturer, instructor and has been featured at numerous metaphysical conferences and workshops. Jean grew up in Rutherford County of NC and graduated from East Rutherford High School in 1969. She has 30 years experience in business and office management. She holds a certificate in Library Sciences and is qualified as a Library Aide. She is owner and CEO of Oldengreen Inc., a staffing and consulting firm.