Welcome to the official website of Jo Swinney
IMPORTANT NOTICE: All the other Jo Swinney websites out there are completely unauthorised, and probably run by fans who have got things completely out of perspective. Calm down everyone! And only pay attention to this one, true official Jo Swinney website.
Jo is a writer, speaker, and keen observer of the world. She is married to Shawn, a youthworker and Anglican curate, and mother to Alexa (3) and Charis (not very old at all).
Jo has written two books that have been helping Christians in many countries think through some tough questions. Her first book, Through the Dark Woods, explores how she lived with depression and discusses issues such as how depression affects relationships, spirituality, work life and self image. It is also available in French through Editions Farel (www.editionsfarel.com). In her second book, Cheerful Madness, she talks with eleven couples about how and why they decided to get engaged. Her third book, "God Hunting" is due to appear on the shelves in early 2011, published by Scripture Union.
Jo writes for Daily Bread and WordLive (daily devotionals in the UK), and has contributed articles to Christianity Magazine, Youthwork Magazine and Woman Alive. She has been interviewed several times on both Premier Radio and UCB, and speaks regularly at conferences and church events.
On this site you can read her fairly random blog entries, catch up on what she is reading, find out her latest movements and write her long and chatty letters (or short and to the point if that is more your style). Please note though, Jo is not professionally trained and is unable to offer psychological support or counsellling.
Praise for Through the Dark Woods:
'She writes engagingly and takes you to places that are familiar to every human being.'
James Jones, Bishop of Liverpool
'A wonderfully honest and compassionate book, drawn from the depths of experience. I warmly recommend it.'
Murray Watts, author and playwright
'Compellingly readable, in delicious bite-sized chunks. Her sparkling humour is allied to down-to-earth practical tips. A real gift to people with depression and their families and friends.'
Dr Maureen Wilkinson, consultant psychiatrist, Wirral
'Engaging, painfully honest, lively... Accessible and challenging at many different levels.'
Prof E. David Cook, Wheaton College, Illinois; Fellow, Green College, Oxford
