Irish Travellers: The Unsettled Life

by Sharon Bohn Gmelch, George Gmelch

Anthropologists George and Sharon Gmelch have been studying the quasi-nomadic people known as Travellers since their fieldwork in the early 1970s, when they lived among Travellers and went on the road in their own horse-drawn wagon. In 2011 they returned to seek out families they had known decades before—shadowed by a film crew and taking with them hundreds of old photographs showing the Travellers' former way of life. Many of these images are included in this book, alongside more recent photos and compelling personal narratives that reveal how Traveller lives have changed now that they have left nomadism behind.

Genres: Nonfiction, Travel, Anthropology

217 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 10, 2014

Reviews

[Deacon Tom (Feeling Better) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredibly Interesting

I stumbled upon this book “Irish Travelers“ by accident. The cover has some very cute redheaded boys on the cover that pulled me towards the book. After reading the book jacket and getting a taste of what was inside, I took a chance.

It’s a very good book about a group of people that I absolutely knew nothing about – – the travelers.

These nomadic people who travel from place to place are very much like gypsies but not exactly the same were very interesting.

The book was a sociological and anthropology study but reads very much like a memoir.

I enjoyed it and I admit it may not be for all but still I recommend it.

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saw the documentary and was drawn into the plight of the travelers difficulty adjusting to settled life. Suicide rates are shocking as their familial bonds have been weakened. Most would be happier returning to trAveling ways as it provided a supportive community. Impressed by the commitment the Gmelch's have shown to their subjects over the course of 40 years.

[Alice Chau-Ginguene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting project. The book is an easy read. I finish it in two days just by reading it on the bus. Fascinating insight about the life of irish travellers. Amazing photos too!