The Ugly Duckling is a literary fairy tale by Danish poet and author Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875). The story tells of a homely little bird born in a barnyard who suffers abuse from his surroundings until, much to his delight (and to the surprise of others), he matures into a beautiful swan, the most beautiful bird of all. The story is beloved around the world as a tale about personal transformation for the better.
Appropriate for ages 4-8.