It’s possible that you already know the derivation of chav, div, and kushti, and how to spot a good water jack; why Roma is not an accurate term, and why the Welsh Gypsies (the Kale) are a purer breed than the English. If not, you have much to learn from Damian Le Bas’ highly readable debut. He comes from a Romany family, but was exceptional in winning scholarships to both a private school and Oxford, thenceforth straddling two worlds – an authentic Scholar-Gypsy.