Mike (The Travellers)

Gypsy boy Mike has been in trouble with the law so his dad, George, has taken him up north to work at Uncle Lash’s scrap yard. They need the money, but it is hard, dirty work and Mike hates it. Lash doesn’t know about Mike’s run-in with the law but someone else at the scrapyard does, and he uses this knowledge to blackmail Mike. Mike finds himself trapped, not knowing which way to turn. It looks as though his ambition to work with racehorses is completely out of reach. Focusing on one of the four main characters in the series ‘The Travellers’, this book is a great read as well as an effective way of coming to understand the world of travelling (gypsy) communities, through the eyes of one of four young teenagers. Offering interesting insights into the way travelling communities live and work, and contradicting many stereotypical assumptions about travellers and non-travellers alike, this book is perfect for any reader who wishes to know more about a different way of life.

Review

“I really like how the plots from the books intertwine. I think all the libraries should have these books they are really good” Ethan Watt, Firhill High for Teen Titles

About the Author

Rosemary Hayes has written numerous books for children, many of which have been shortlisted for awards. She worked for Cambridge University Press and ran her own small educational publishing company, Anglia Young Books, specializing in curriculum-related historical fiction. She is currently a reader for a well known authors’ advisory service and also runs creative writing workshops.