The true story of a Romany childhood...

Gypsy Princess is a searingly honest account of what life is really like for travelling communities, for girls in particular, and captures a way of life that is slowly fading away. If you enjoyed the memoirs of Mikey Walsh and Jess Smith, you'll be enthralled by Violet Cannon's biography.

'A fascinating and enjoyable insight into Gypsy life' - Closer

A true blooded Gypsy, Violet Cannon grew up the Romany way. Life was tough at times, living in a cramped one-roomed trailer, but, unbound by strict routines, Violet spent her days learning to keep home, playing and roaming the fields with a sense of freedom long lost to the rest of modern society.

Immersed in the Gypsy way of life, her childhood set her apart from other children. Bullied by classmates, and segregated from 'gorgia' kids (all non-Gypsies), Violet eventually left school at the age of nine to live a life of travel, play and learning under generations-old Gypsy rules on the fringes of society.

With traditional values at the heart of her childhood, the pressure of conforming and marrying young was intense. Violet was duty-bound to find a husband, but would her marriage lead to the 'happy ever after' she grew up believing in as a Gypsy girl?

What readers are saying about Gypsy Princess:

'A fascinating and realistic look at what it means to be a Gypsy in today's society. A little understanding of Gypsy traditions goes a long way and I hope we see more biographies like this one'

'Violet is so likeable and warm, and the stories are written so vividly that you can really imagine yourself there'

'I could not put this book down - from the first paragraph I was hooked. I would love to read more about this fascinating lady and her family. By the end of the book I felt as if I knew them all'

The true story of a Romany childhood

About the Author

Violet Margaret Princess Cannon was born and bred in Bradford, West Yorkshire, and has an education, a job and a divorce to her name. She has spent the last eight years working with Gypsies and Travellers, fighting to gain the community recognition as an ethnic minority in its own right. Violet is the Chairperson of the Romany Woman's Union, and is about to judge the national Miss Gypsy UK competition.

Reviews
'A fascinating and enjoyable insight into Gypsy life' * Closer *
'[A] fascinating insight into Gypsy culture and community' * Take a Break *



Book Information
ISBN 9780755362837
Author Violet Cannon
Format Paperback
Page Count 384
Imprint Headline Book Publishing
Publisher Headline Publishing Group
Weight(grams) 260g
Dimensions(mm) 196mm * 128mm * 28mm