Svinia in Black and White

This excellent, well-written study blends traditional anthropology with history to give us a unique look into the life, history, culture, and status of the Roma." - David M. Crowe, Elon University

Born in Prague, David Z. Scheffel spent his early years in Czechoslovakia, Austria, and the Netherlands. His interest in anthropology took him to several European and Canadian universities where he specialized in Polar and Russian studies. Author of the original research for the 1989 National Film Board of Canada production The Old Believers, he obtained his doctorate from McMaster University, and now teaches at Thompson Rivers University in British Columbia.

Brilliant study of a complex, haunting situation. One of the best ethnographic works I have ever read!

A. Karakasidou, Wellesley College:

Scheffel offers a superb history of Roma settlements and integration efforts while succinctly analyzing the present-day culture of the Roma community. An invaluable book for both the general public and undergraduate and graduate students.

David M. Crowe, Elon University:

This excellent, well-written study blends traditional anthropology with history to give us a unique look into the life, history, culture, and status of the Roma. [...] The author's sensitive yet 'no-holds-barred' approach, whether it be towards the 'white' Slovaks or their despised Roma neighbours, underscores the value of this work. It is a welcome addition to the growing field of Romani studies.

Zoltan Barany, University of Texas, author of East European Gypsies: Regime Change, Marginality, and Ethnopolitics:

This book is a terrific contribution to the literature on the East European Roma. It is an invaluable tool for the classroom, a thoughtful and carefully researched work for ethnographers and anthropologists to ponder, and a fascinating read for the general public.