Ossiri and the Bala Mengro - Author Richard O'Neill

Ossiri, a young Traveller girl, dreams of making music, but she doesn’t have a real instrument. So, with creativity and determination, she crafts one from a willow branch and recycled materials. It doesn’t sound very good, but Ossiri plays with joy. Despite warnings to stay away from the hills where a fearsome ogre, Bala Mengro, is said to live, she heads there to practise. What will happen when her music fills the air?

This beautifully illustrated picture book, written by a Romani storyteller and author Richard O’Neill, is an engaging original folktale that celebrates imagination, courage, and cultural heritage.

Why we, and schools, like it:

• Celebrates Romani culture – Offers an authentic and respectful window into Traveller traditions, ideal for inclusive classrooms.
• Encourages creativity and self-expression – Inspires children to make music and art from what they have.
• Sparks conversation about bravery and empathy – A valuable tool for developing social-emotional understanding.