Duckling Ugly

This middle-grade fantasy retells the Ugly Duckling story with a dark twist. Cara, a girl deemed impossibly ugly, endures relentless bullying and rejection, even from her own parents. Her life changes when she discovers a magical valley where she can transform into a beautiful swan. However, this newfound power and beauty are accompanied by a strong urge for 'deadly revenge' against those who made her life a misery. The book explores themes of self-acceptance, belonging, and the consequences of cruelty, offering a complex look at justice and retribution. It's suitable for ages 8-12, prompting discussions on bullying, identity, and moral choices.

Cara is so ugly, mirrors would rather break than show her reflection. Not even her own parents can deny her ugliness, and nothing can make up for the cruelty of her schoolmates. Tormented and tortured by the shallow people of FlockÂ's Rest, CaraÂ's life is miserable. Then Cara receives a shimmering note from some exotic place suggesting that thereÂ's more to her than meets the eye. Cara wonders if her destiny has something to do with her recurring dreams of a beautiful green valley where the people are so accepting, her ugliness doesnÂ't matter. Soon, Cara discovers that her valley of dreams is real. ItÂ's a place where the ugliest of ducklings can become swans. A swan, however, can have a serious taste for revenge . . . deadly revenge.