Twelve year-olds Jerry and Darren witness a burglary and pick up a priceless ring before running from their eccentric foster mum,and are chased by the burglars, taking refuge with gipsies, a woman who delivers them to a slave children's factory, a rich woman who wants to adopt them, a mad woman on a remote mountain farm, hypnotists who exploit them and more: a mad chase with many funny escapes.

Natural leader Jerry is surprised by slower Darren's talents.

Its fast pace will also appeal to reluctant readers.