Local Author Shines Light on Addiction Recovery Through New Book

ZANESVILLE, OH – A local author has published a new book to help those who may be struggling with addiction.

Leah Narin wrote and photographed the many pictures within her new book “Redemption Through the Lens; Portraits of Recovery.”

She said she was inspired to create this book because of her previously being a probation officer and seeing these stories first hand.

She said it just started with her taking photos of people ripping up their old mugshot photos and she realized this could be a resource for others seeking help.

“I think the criminal justice system, it does receive a lot of criticism. You often hear that the system is broken and I just kind of felt like, I know people, like Stephanie, I know Stephanie, I know a lot of people that are doing well,” Narin said. “It was something I really enjoyed doing when I was an officer, so when I left that position I wanted to continue with it and kind of run with it. I just feel like people need to know that people are doing well, cause the headlines are always about how people aren’t doing well.”

Stephanie Dunlap was one of the participants Narin photographed for the book.

She said when Narin approached her with the idea for the book, she thought it would be an amazing thing for those who aren’t sure where to go for help.

“It kind of gives us a voice, it gives us a voice like hey we’re out here, we’re doing well,” Dunlap said. “There are success stories, you can come through this and it also, it gives people hope. It gives people hope like if they can do it, so can I.”

If you are interested in picking up a copy of “Redemption Through the Lens; Portraits of Recovery”, you can head to their website.