BIBLIOGRAPHY
Pinkney, Jerry. 1999. The Ugly Duckling. New York: Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 9780688159320
PLOT SUMMARY
Jerry Pinkney retells a Hans Christian Andersen classic in his adaptation of The Ugly Duckling. From the moment the ugly duckling is bord, he is taunted and mistreated until he flies away from his first family. He experiences many challenges in life as he searches for a place to belong and a purpose for his life. For a very long time he believes the unkind things that were said to him when he was young and impressionable. Finally, he meets up with a group of beautiful swans and catches his first glimpse of his own reflection. Because he knew sadness and isolation, he had a true appreciation for belonging and happiness.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
In this classic tale, Pinkney paints a picture with detailed illustrations and precise word choice. The rich language adds to the depth of this retelling and helps the reader experience the depth of the duckling’s feelings. Intricate illustrations keep the audience engrossed in the events in the life of a duckling as he grows into a beautiful swan and finds true happiness.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Caldecott Honor - 2000
Crafted with much thought as to the pacing required for the picture-book format, Pinkney's adaptation emphasizes the actions of the protagonists and omits the social commentary and philosophizing. The mesmerizing illustrations are a fitting interpretation of the story, and each spread is carefully composed so that it surrounds but does not overwhelm the text. - Horn Book Guide, 1999
CONNECTIONS
What a beautiful story this is to share with children about the importance of how we treat others. In addition to being revisited as part of a unit on traditional literature, this would be a great book for the first week of school as classroom norms are developed. Students can discuss the events in the life of the duckling the impacted him negatively and explore how he grew from the adversity he experienced.
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