A drab hatchling endures jeers from sleek siblings and farmyard foes, his odd looks a launchpad for lonely wanderings through reeds and winters. Harsh hunts and hen pecks persist until spring's swan flock mirrors his majesty, embracing the beauty he'd always borne within. Eastland's expressive spreads soften Alperin's tender retelling, a first-fairy primer on self-worth's swan-song for budding believers.
