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The ugly duckling
a play in one act.
353 pages
A droll and witty theatrical romp that playfully subverts the classic fairy tale.
What it feels like
Reading this short play feels like stepping into a brightly lit, whimsical castle where every conversation crackles with droll humor. The pace is brisk and theatrical, driven entirely by sharp, witty dialogue rather than heavy exposition. It carries a playful, lighthearted tone as it pokes fun at royal superficiality and the awkwardness of courtiers trying to navigate a princess who defies traditional fairy tale expectations. The mood is cheerful and irresistibly fun, wrapping a clever exploration of true beauty inside a delightful comedy of manners. It is perfect for readers who appreciate classic, dialogue-heavy subversions of familiar tropes, offering a quick, joyful experience that relies on clever wordplay and charmingly scheming characters to deliver its enigmatic surprises.
- Mood
- whimsical
- cheerful
- theatrical
- Tone
- droll
- witty
- playful
- lighthearted
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- the nature of true beauty · subverting expectations · royal scheming · societal superficiality
- The writing
- Bursting with sharp, droll dialogue and clever rhymes that bring a lively castle to life.
- The arc
- A playful and lighthearted romp that moves from awkward royal dilemmas to a joyful, surprising conclusion.
- Who it's for
- Readers who love clever, dialogue-driven subversions of classic fairy tales and lighthearted royal comedies.
Content notes
- focus on physical appearance
About the book
This short play by the author of Winnie the Pooh, is a droll little fairy tale about a princess who isn't beautiful. At her christening she was blessed by her Great-Aunt Malkin with this enigmatic rhyme: "I give you with this kiss A wedding day surprise. Where ignorance is bliss 'Tis folly to be wise." She has now grown up into a happy and healthy young woman, but she is undeniably plain. All the courtiers must tread warily around the subject of this most unheard of misfortune, and her royal father and mother scheme and plot how to marry her off. Although only seven actors are required, it is bursting with witty dialogue and brings to life the whole castle. Irresistible fun!
Description from Open Library.
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