The Church of Cheese: Gypsy Ritual in the American Heyday

This is a rare and incisive view of the Gypsies of America. Carol Miller is perhaps the only non-Roma in the United States who has become part of Gypsy society, being accepted as a sister and surrogate daughter of Gypsy women, and finding the love of her life in a charismatic but elusive Traveler, profiled in her first book, Lola's Luck: My Life Among the California Gypsies. The Church of Cheese could be used by cultural anthropologists seeking an introduction to Gypsy society, but it is the general public who will enjoy it most. As Miller recounts the trials and tribulations, joys and celebrations of the Gypsy families she knows, she weaves in their customs, their rituals, and their beliefs. This is a tour de force by an author with a unique perspective on a hidden group of Americans who follow their own ancient ways in our very midst. As we discover in The Church of Cheese, Gypsies sing and dance to bring luck to each moment, both in their own lives and the lives of others. The Church of Cheese is a voyage of discovery, showing us people whom we sometimes admire, sometimes are suspicious of, but always are fascinated by. Carol Miller allows us to see their lives as they really are, rather than as they are so often depicted. I strongly encourage you to buy it!