Book description
This is the incredible story of a boy who escaped from a secret world.
Mikey is a Romany Gypsy and grew up living in a caravan on sites across
the UK. He adored his family and the rich and vibrant Romany culture
he'd inherited. Eventually though he was forced to make a heartbreaking
decision - to stay and keep secrets, or escape and find somewhere to
finally belong. But Mikey quickly discovers that life in the outside
world isn't all he expected. After learning his father had put a
contract out on him and that he was being hunted down by gangs of thugs
determined to claim their reward, Mikey realises that life will never be
the same again. Brimming with unforgettable characters, this
extraordinary coming-of-age story will remind you that sometimes it
takes courage (and the odd Disney song) to be the person you were meant
to be.
Mikey Walsh was one of the first Romany Gypsies ever to write a book.
He grew up living in a caravan on sites across the UK, and had hardly
any schooling. He taught himself to read and write, and his first book
Gypsy Boy published in 2008 and became a Number 1 Bestseller.
It sold all over the world and a film is currently being made, based
on the book.
Growing up, Mikey seldom mixed with anyone outside his community with
its colourful characters and strict family code. And despite its
violence and hardships, it was the life that Mikey loved.
His second book, Gypsy Boy on the Run follows Mikey as he
leaves the Gypsy camp, and takes his first steps in to the real -
Gorgia - world, to find a place to belong.
After years of moving home, making new friends and losing loved ones,
Mikey finally succumbed to staying put eight years ago. London called
him and it is the longest time he has ever lived in one place. Now,
Mikey works at a nearby primary school and also picks up the formal
education he missed out on as a child.
Mikey has had overwhelming support from all over the world since the
publication of Gypsy Boy, including Stephen Fry who tweeted,
'It was a revelation. Moving, terrifying, funny and brilliant. I shall
never forget it - an amazing achievement'. Attitude magazine
called it 'the best memoir since Running with Scissors' and
even Dermot O'Leary and Dannii Minogue have reviewed it (follow the
links to view).
