The Ugly Duckling

A mother duck hatches her eggs, but one duckling is different – large, gray, and "ugly" compared to his yellow siblings. His family and other animals (crows, pigeons) reject him because of his appearance and different vocalizations. He attempts to fly like the beautiful swans he sees, but it is too small and fuzzy. The ugly duckling endures a lonely winter. When spring arrives, he goes for a swim and is astonished to see his reflection – he's grown into a beautiful white swan. Other swans welcome him, and he realizes he was never an ugly duckling, but a cygnet all along. Finally accepted and no longer "ugly," he happily joins the other swans and flies away with them. The story highlights the themes of self-discovery, inner beauty, and the harm of judging by appearances. It shows a journey from rejection and loneliness to acceptance and belonging. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices