Lijah is part of a travelling Romani community living in Sheffield. The family make their way with their Rag-and-bone cart and are proud of their heritage but Lijah's mum is aware that, in England, children need to go to school until they are 16. Despite his dad's protestations, Lijah is sent to school where he is treated differently and isn't even given a slate and chalk with which to work on his first day. As he settles into routines, he discovers football and that he loves the game. Once he begins playing, he also realises that he is good at it and dreams of becoming a professional footballer. However, this doesn't fit with his dad's idea of the Romani way of life which means he feels as though he needs to make a choice between his family and his passion.
This is the first book in this series I have read, but it most definitely won't be the last. Told in an engaging way, the book clearly teaches readers about Romani travellers, their way of life, their traditions and also the struggles they have faced. Lijah is a relatable character and his love of football will be something many children will understand.
This is a gripping story and one I know will appeal to many children at school. Whilst being an entertaining read, it is also an important one in that it educates children into part of history - it's even lead me to researching Rab Howell to discover more of his story.
Published today, A Romani Story is a book you will want to add to your classroom and school library.
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