Name
Mr Richard O'Neill
Country of residence
United Kingdom
Ethnicity
Roma
Occupation
Storyteller Author Educator
BIO
I’m a multi-award winning, Storyteller, Author and educator born and raised in a large traditional nomadic Romani family, who’s history in England goes back to King Henry the Eighth, I continue the tradition of Travelling storyteller across the UK and mainland Europe, delivering storytelling sessions and storytelling skills workshops in Schools, Libraries, Festivals, Universities and theatres. I have a particular interest in using literature to promote inclusion and social mobility. I believe that storytelling is for everyone and should be fun and love family storytelling events.
A skilled woodcarver I make a range of toys that accompany many of the stories including the latest ‘Little Geordie’ and ‘Jenny Buttons.’
I’m the author of 14 books. My play ‘Today’s lesson featuring a Roma activist was performed in Budapest by the Independent theater Hungary.
I am a designated National Literacy Hero in the UK and the co-founder of Diverse Book Week.
My picture books and graphic novels have received numerous awards in the UK and in the USA including an Aesop medal. My current book is on the United Nations book list.