"The Ugly Duckling" is a fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen that tells the story of a young bird who is ridiculed for being different from his siblings. As he grows, he faces rejection and loneliness, feeling out of place among the other animals. The story highlights themes of identity and self-acceptance. Eventually, the duckling undergoes a transformation and becomes a beautiful swan. This metamorphosis symbolizes personal growth and the realization that true beauty comes from within. The tale encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and understand that everyone has their own journey to self-discovery.