A LAMPETER author has written a book illustrating the effect the global pandemic has had on three generations of her family.

Published by Aberaeron-based Cowry Publishing, Diary of a Shielding Yogini is described as “an uplifting account, which shows the sustaining power of a positive attitude and faith in the essential goodness of humanity.

The book takes the reader on walks through the Welsh countryside, wild swimming in the river Teifi and the Irish Sea.

Woven throughout is a stillness and inner strength derived from a lifetime of spiritual practices and the support and guidance of an enlightened spiritual teacher.

Author Josie Smith, who has lived and worked in Ceredigion since 1973, examines the unique qualities of the county are very much part of Josie’s book.

As Karen Gemma Brewer, the publisher, writes in the foreword: “For many, Ceredigion may seem a small and magical place, it is…”

“Everyone has been touched in some way by the Covid-19 pandemic, we all have a tale to tell, many tales will be told and amongst the pandemonium some will stand out. This one shines.

“Whatever you may believe, or not believe, there is a depth to Josie’s story that reaches beyond its subject to touch the nerve endings of humanity.”

Playwright and poet Dic Edwards writes: “The writing is controlled and purposeful. And trustworthy.

“It is a love story: Love in a time of Covid to borrow and paraphrase from Marquez. A love that grows to counter the fear building before the advancing plague.

“It’s a work you can hold onto as if it were something you yourself had written.”

Published on October 31 by Cowry Publishing, Diary of a Shielding Yogini by Josie Smith is available at Gwisgo Bookworm, Aberaeron, The Mulberry Bush, Lampeter, and online at gwisgobookworm.co.uk.

The launch of the book will be on Saturday, October 23 from 4pm to 6pm at The Mulberry Bush Cafe, 2, Bridge Street, Lampeter SA48 7HG.