He’s gifted (detfig) at spelling words backward

Newt Thomas was about 12 when he discovered that he possesses a special skill. His ability didn’t propel him to fame or great fortune, but it did make him a popular customer at Plank’s Bier Garten on the South Side. For many years at Plank’s, the bartender would tap Thomas to impress customers drawkcab lleps ot ytiliba sih htiw. That is: with his ability to spell backward.