About Out of the Shadows

Out Of The Shadows is a collection of writings and photos, some of which first appeared on Bedlamfarm.com, my website and blog. The entries and photos detailed my experience with depression, loss, renewal, and with what Joseph Campbell the mythologist calls "the universal journey to rebirth of life."

I found myself in the middle of one of the oldest most popular stories in human history — that of a human on a quest for the truth: about himself, his life, and the world around him. The hero leaves his base, ventures out into mysterious realms, runs into trouble, and either does — or doesn’t — return safely. There is, says Campbell, always the possibility of fiasco, always the possibility of bliss.

Professor Campbell was right. In 2007, I encountered both. I was stunned as my depression — the first in my life — deepened into something disturbing and challenging. I believed myself to be in a battle for my mind, and I responded in a number of ways: faith, therapy, blogging, poetry, hospice work, photography, writing, family, reading, camping, the acquisition of a new puppy, and the deep and true love of good friends.

I also confided in a 3,000-pound Swiss steer.

The experience was shocking, humbling, and amazingly rewarding — one of the greatest gifts to me in years. I came out of the shadows after a few months. An integral part of this journey was my blogging, which began a dialogue with readers all over the world, and my pictures, which became a source of inspiration and renewal. Both are represented in this book, the story of one’s person’s travel from darkness to light.

The book has been edited by my good friend Maria Heinrich, who witnessed this journey, helped me get through it, and has assembled the words and pictures in this book. I am grateful to her for more than I express.

You can see my photos and read my blog at www.bedlamfarm.com and also at www.photosbyjonkatz.com.

Where to Buy

Out of the Shadows will be available for sale in the summer of 2008 and can be purchased from the Troy Bookmakers, Red Fox Books, Battenkill Books, the Troy Bookshop, Northshire Books and at bookstores everywhere. Photos can be purchased at All The Right Angles framing shop in Saratoga Springs, New York.

A portion of all proceeds will go to benefit hospice.

Bedlam Farm Books

Out of the Shadows is the first publication of a new imprint, Bedlam Farm Books, published by Jon Katz and edited by Maria Heinrich.

In the spring, Bedlam Farm Books will also publish My Place on Earth, a collection of poems by Mary Kellogg. We are also working on books and pictures on my experience with my dog Izzy and Washington County’s Hospice program, a book on restoration by Bill and Maria Heinrich, and a collection of essays and poems from students at Granville, New York High School.