JOSEPH EMMETT is a history teacher, activist and songwriter who lives in west Herefordshire on the English-Welsh border near Hay-on-Wye with his partner, two children and one black Labrador. Born in Southampton, he moved to Herefordshire from Bristol, via Cardiff, London and Brighton, and has been on a quest to walk the county’s hills, valleys, woods and fields to better understand what it means to call a place home. His book NEW ROOTS, ANCIENT LANDS is a walking history exploring nature about Herefordshire, providing a window into British history.

SARAH SIAN CHAVE takes us on a journey from Hafren’s source to the sea, following Hafren’s route from Pumlumon in Wales and meandering through England, before she finds her way back home to Wales and to the sea. The journey weaves together Celtic myths, historical and personal narratives as well as Welsh words and ideas.

Hafren not only speaks to the wisdom of this river, but of all rivers, encouraging readers to understand better their place as part of nature. This book will appeal to those interested in nature, sustainability and ecology, and also to those interested in Celtic and Welsh traditions, histories and myths.

Afon Hafren, the river Severn, is a mighty Welsh river. She has shaped many histories and is part of many stories. In Celtic traditions, water is a source of wisdom. In a time of ecological crisis, how can we listen to the wisdom of Hafren?