The Ugly Duckling

The Ugly Duckling is a children's fairy tale.

Fast Facts

1. Created by Hans Christian Andersen
2. Published in 1844
3. Illustration by Vilhelm Pedersen
4. Themes: Acceptance, vanity, segregation, beauty is only skin deep
5. Has been adapted for song and animation
6. Has been woven into several popular film and television plots

Plot

The Ugly Duckling is about an extra egg that turns up in a clutch of duck eggs. After all the others hatch, out comes the ugliest duckling of all. Ridiculed by his nestmates and by everyone else who sees him, he goes off on his own until he one day he meets up with others of his kind and finds love and acceptance.

Reviews

• "This ageless story speaks across generations with its reaffirming message. In this age of instant gratification, Andersen's tale reminds readers that some things are worth waiting for and that a pleasure deferred (whether by choice or necessity) is often the sweetest one of all." - Commensense Media

• "This magical tale is told with such pathos and beauty so as to touch the reader at every hearing. Its depth ensures that it is ever fresh, as though being read for the first time though it may be the tenth. It is a classic fairy tale that will never lose its appeal or its relevance." - SHVoong

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