Okay, folks. This doesn’t usually happen, but I’m stumped. Maybe it’s because it’s after midnight and I’m TIRED. But I can’t think of the name of a short story/novella I read in high school and it’s REALLY annoying me, as I want to get my hands on it.

Basically the premise is about boys at a private school. There is one boy who sort of stands out as a bit of a mischief maker. He wears his school tie as a belt, and he’s always getting in trouble. For some reason all the boys jump out of a tree into some water to show how tough they are. The mischievous boy ends up breaking his leg, and when the doctor’s go to set it, marrow escapes, poisoning his body, and he dies.

Sorry for the spoilers if you haven’t read it, but DAMN. I can’t for the life of me remember what it was. Please help!

I was reminded of this story tonight while doing a crossword puzzle. The puzzle had a hint about a “wading bird,” which I realised was an Ibis. It reminded me of the short story, The Scarlet Ibis by James Hurst. I suddenly recalled many a short story I wanted to re-read, and I found a GREAT resource for short stories.

If anyone is interested, click here.

Anyway, I’m REALLY trying to figure out the name of this story so I can go re-read it. For some reason I keep thinking it has a name like, “An __________    ____________.” And the word “pearl” keeps coming to mind. I have no idea why.

If you can think of it, PLEASE let me know.