Knock ’Em Dead Ned--A Children's Story

All of the grammar school students in Noodleneck, Nebraska, avoided Ned Nellinger and called him “Ne’er-Do-Well Ned” because he was always getting into trouble, especially on the playground. He argued about the least little thing, especially when participating in games, and he never smiled. Although he was a handsome lad, his bad attitude and the frown that was always on his face caused girls to dislike him, as did the old, worn-out clothes he wore, which had been handed down to him by his older brothers. Still, inside this lonely kid, the desire to make something of himself was strong.

That desire came true when he attended a physical exercise course that the school required all youngsters to take. The instructors set up a boxing ring and told those boys who wanted to learn about the art of boxing to put on gloves, mouthpieces, and helmets. Ned was eager to participate. When he stepped into the ring, the referee chose another boy the same size as Ned to be his opponent. “Boys,” the instructor said, “boxing isn’t just about trying to hit your opponent; it is an art involving strategy, defense, and offense, and requires a cool-headed attitude, not anger.”

Ned listened closely and soon learned the basics, including footwork, how to dodge the opponent’s swings, and what to look for that might be a weakness in the other boxer’s methods. At first, he realized that he was far too slow, not only in moving about his opponent but also in protecting himself from blows. Even before the whistle blew, ending the first round, Ned had taken several hits from the other guy and was knocked down. But, instead of becoming angry, as he always had done on the playground, he became extremely interested in the beauty of this sport.

When he was telling his parents about it, they began to notice a delightful difference in the boy. He was excited, and his bad attitude had been replaced by a keen desire to become an accomplished boxer. Mr. Nellinger told him about one of his old army buddies, Newt Newton, who had been a champion boxer and a resident of Noodleneck. “Please, Dad, ask him if he will teach me how to become a better boxer.” His dad agreed, and after just a few training sessions, Newt told Mr. Nellinger that Ned had the makings of a skilled boxer.

Ned was ecstatic. He practiced daily, and soon even Mr. Newton had trouble avoiding his student’s swift jabs and powerful punches. When Ned represented his school at the statewide boxing tournament, he noticed the other tough-looking contestants. His coach whispered in his ear, “Don’t let their tough looks cause you to lose focus. Face them with the fundamentals in mind — dance quickly, look for weaknesses, and show no fear. You can beat them. Ned did just that! He won the tournament. From then on, he was not known as Ne’er-Do-Well Ned but by his new nickname: Knock ’Em Dead Ned.

NOTE: Jimmy Reed is a retired college professor and author of several books. This story is from his latest, a children’s book entitled FROM A TO Z, TO YOU FROM ME. Each story in the book maximizes the use of an alphabetical letter, enhanced by alliteration and assonance. The book is available on Amazon, or can be purchased directly from the author. His email address is jimmycecilreedjr@gmail.com.