Barefoot in a Prickle Patch is a sensitive story of the gradually unfolding friendship between two fifteen-year-olds of opposite gender and different nationalities, both new students at the same High School. Summer and Fergus are both struggling through separate major traumas that have turned their lives upside down. They find mutual support and strength in each other. They also share a common interest in running, and become the target of a common enemy - the school's notorious ring of bullies. Problems with the 'King Ring' multiply and the drama intensifies into an out-of-control situation that requires Summer to overcome a crippling fear in order to save the lives of Fergus, and her dog, Jaunty. The ongoing theme of the story could be 'New Beginnings'. It contains both humour and pathos, and is enhanced throughout by the poems and witty quips and quotes from the main characters.