Way of the Wanderers: The Story of Travellers in Scotland

By: Jess Smith

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Synopsis: A &“vigorous and vivid and feisty&” portrait of a traditional Scottish subculture from an insider (Dundee Courier & Advertiser). Scottish gypsies, known as travellers, have wandered Scotland&’s roads and byways for centuries, and their turbulent history is captured in this passionate book by Jess Smith, the bestselling author of Jessie&’s Journey. This is less a conventional history than a personal pilgrimage through the stories, songs, and culture of a people for whom freedom is more important than security and a campfire under the stars is preferable to a warm hearth within stone walls. Settled society has always discriminated against travellers, and Jess tells shocking stories of bullying, violence, the enforced break-up of families, and separate schooling. But drawing on her own and her family&’s experiences, she also captures the magic and drama of days wandering the roads and working the land, and brings to life the travellers&’ rich and vibrant traditions.