Books Like Duckling Ugly
Families who loved Duckling Ugly by Neal Shusterman often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Duckling Ugly by Neal Shusterman often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with self esteem, feeling physically inadequate, or facing the sting of social rejection. While it begins with the painful reality of bullying and isolation, it evolves into a dark, modern fairy tale about what happens when we prioritize external beauty over our inner character. Cara is a girl who believes she is hideously ugly, but her journey to a magical valley where she can finally be beautiful comes with a heavy price. It is a sophisticated exploration of identity and the dangers of resentment. Parents should be aware that the story takes a darker, more cautionary turn than traditional fairy tales. It is best suited for mature middle grade readers who enjoy spooky stories and can handle themes of revenge and moral complexity. It serves as a powerful conversation starter about the true definition of beauty and the risks of losing oneself to anger.
