From suffering bullying as a kid, to finding inspiration from his idol Bruce Lee, Mick began to fight back learning martial arts to eventually gain respect and defend himself, going from a bullied kid to black belt in several arts. Training with some of the best masters in the U.K Mick improved to the point where he had to travel over to the USA to train regular with original Bruce Lee student Larry Hartsell to go further in his study's. Further travels over the years to America saw Mick train with some of the best in Filipino weapons combat as well as his teacher taking his training to the highest levels. Helping pioneer modern mixed martial arts in the north of the UK alongside Brazilian Jiu Jitsu when it was in its infancy there is a story to tell from Mick about the highs and lows of running a gym, facing off challengers both in the gym and on the street but most of all there is an inspiring story of the triumph of the spirit and overcoming obstacles in life when many others would have quit.

The book also follows Mick from his childhood being brought up in an Irish fighting family with a father and uncle who had gained respect from their use of fighting skill, facing racism in years gone by.

Sticks and stones is an inspiring insight into someone that stood up to the bullying and name calling using the pain suffered as a driving force to make him stronger and a success in later life.