The Ugly Duckling by Jerry Pinkney

Book Review of 

Bibliography

Pinkney, J. (1999). The ugly duckling. Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 9780688159320

Plot Summary

Being different isn’t easy and the same can be said for a duckling. After hatching, realizing he isn’t like his brothers and sisters, and being tormented by the others, the duckling makes the difficult decision to leave his family. Searching for peace, the ugly duckling must face numerous obstacles. Will he ever find what he is looking for? The duckling must go through many “seasons” of change before he finds the real truth of beauty. 

Critical Analysis

Jerry Pinkney’s adaption and illustration of the fable, The Ugly Duckling, is a masterpiece. Pinkney guides the reader through a relatable journey, one of learning patience and the true meaning of beauty. Realistic and colorful watercolor illustrations complement the story and add to the emotional appeal of this survival story. 

Review Excerpt(s)
“Pinkney's keenly observed watercolors honor nature in all its splendor. A flawlessly nuanced performance by a consummate craftsman.” - Publishers Weekly
“The appeal of this tale is as strong today as it was 150 years ago, and Pinkney has done an admirable job of repackaging it for a new generation. His adaptation of the text succeeds in capturing the gentleness and melancholy of Andersen, although a bit of the social commentary has gone by the wayside. Pinkney does not shy away from including the more disturbing elements.” - School Librarian Journal

Awards
A Caldecott Honor Book

Connections
For additional activities related to the book:

• Children will have a writing prompt to explain where they would go and who they may meet along the way if they were the ugly duckling.
• Create a swan by tracing the child’s hand. Cut out tracing and glue a curved, long piece of white construction paper to the bottom of the hand
• Create a swan using toilet paper rolls and printouts of different parts of a swan. Have children color, cut, and glue onto toilet paper roll.

Other recommended books if you liked this one:

• Quackers by Liz Wong
• Rosie the Raven by Helga Bansch
• Crow by Leo Timmers