
Written by Cheryl Bardoe · Illustrated by Roy D. Kennedy
A dinosaur hatches among ducklings, seeking where he truly belongs.
In a nest of ducklings, an unusual egg hatches, revealing a dinosaur. Feeling out of place, he embarks on a journey to find where he fits in. As he grows, he struggles to make friends until he stumbles upon others like him. Could he be a T. rex? This whimsical twist on a classic tale explores identity and belonging, with scientifically accurate illustrations and fascinating dinosaur facts.
Once upon a time, seven tiny duck beaks pecked their way out of their eggs, but the eighth egg was a little bit different. What emerged wasn’t a duck at all–he was a dinosaur! Everyone notices how different he is. He doesn’t waddle! His teeth are too big! Feeling ugly and outcast, the dinosaur duckling leaves his family and ventures out on his own. Again and again he tries to make friends, but everyone runs away! Over time he grows bigger and bigger but still can’t seem to find his rightful place. One day he unexpectedly comes across other dinosaurs that look just like him, and he discovers he’s really a T. rex! This humorous and charming take on The Ugly Duckling also includes an author’s note about the dinosaurs depicted and the early ancestors of modern ducks who lived side by side, and features scientifically accurate illustrations of the creatures. Praise for Ugly Duckling Dinosaur”Facial characterization excels. A sure winner for those dino-hungry readers.” -Kirkus Reviews “The extensive appended notes, including details of recent fossil findings, and a bibliography will grab dinosaur buffs and widen this title’s potential for curricular sharing.” -Booklist
Surprise a reader with their next favorite book.
Spotted a mistake or something missing? Improve this page.
Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.