Oksana Marafioti is an Armenian-born American author and former classical pianist. She is best known for her memoir, “American Gypsy: A Memoir,” which details her experiences growing up in a Romani family and her journey from the Soviet Union to the United States. The book provides a unique and insightful look into Romani culture and the immigrant experience. Marafioti has also written essays and articles, contributing to a broader understanding of Romani life and identity.
Here is an excerpt from Oksana Marafioti’s memoir, “American Gypsy: A Memoir”:
“We used to sit around the fire and listen to stories. My grandfather’s stories were best. His favorites were of the Gypsy caravans that moved through Europe, spreading music and love wherever they went. ‘We are a people of the road,’ he said. ‘Our hearts beat with the rhythm of the wheels, and our souls soar with the songs of the wind.’”
This passage captures the essence of her cultural heritage and the oral traditions that are an important part of Romani life. The book is filled with rich descriptions of her family’s history and experiences, blending personal narrative with cultural commentary.
At 15, it was hard for Oksana Marafioti to adjust to American life and find normalcy while her family dabbled in ghost hunting, conducted se
