Gypsy Girl- Rosie McKinley

Imagine being born into a world where communities are constantly on the move, but freedom is not a birthright.Rosie grew up travelling all over England and Ireland in her family's caravan. She had an idyllic childhood roaming fields and meadows with her younger brothers and sisters - free from the trappings of modern life, but restricted by the expectations of her culture. When Rosie was 14, the family's happiness was shattered when her grandfather - who was loved and respected by the whole community - was killed in a tragic accident. Suddenly everything in Rosie's life unravelled and she was forced to abandon the traditional way of life she loved. Her family fell apart and Rosie tried her best to take care of her younger siblings and hold the family together.As life at home became unbearable Rosie met Stevie, a traveller boy who promised her a different kind of life. But, Stevie was battling his own demons and Rosie's journey to freedom had only just begun...


What a moving tale of a difficult childhood. It goes to show that no matter what religion or culture you are born into the struggles and difficulties can be similar.  Rosie was born into a gypsy life, and this was a struggle from day one.  This tale gives a unique insight into a culture you may not always hear/read about. However Rosie's life is tough and she goes through a lot more than most people do.

Beautifully written, easy to get into and hard to put down, this tale shows you an overview of Rosie's life.  She gives an insight into the ideas and cultures of a gypsy but also that of a catholic where families expand at almost an alarming rate and the notion of standing by your man no matter what.  She does not have it easy but from this novel you can see she try's her best to make it ok, and even more so to make sure everyone else around her is ok. You can tell she has a fight in her to keep her going through all the suffering and pain she puts up with.

Unexpected as its more a tale of a troubled childhood and growing up with a sprinkling of the travellers culture thrown in.  Their is nothing from the description and the cover to suggest this book would be as sad and as moving as it was. At the same time it was fascination, and really worth a read.  Great book and I would recommend it.