cover image The Ugly Duckling

The Ugly Duckling

Hans Christian Andersen, . . Putnam, $16.99 (32pp) ISBN 978-0-399-25029-3

Isadora’s latest interpretation of a fairy tale remains mostly loyal to the story line, but its sensual, mosaiclike collages create depth and texture, evoking the essence of an African savanna. The “large and clumsy” duckling, black and gray to the other ducklings’ bright yellow, is ostracized by the other animals on the farm. But when a “kind farmer” takes him in, he lives with the farmer’s family over the winter. In the spring, he emerges as a lovely swan with inky, blue plumage. A stirring adaptation. Ages 5–8. (May)