Reading Groups

In Short: Hans Christian Andersen's “The Ugly Duckling” with Amanda Hollander

$45

1 Session

In stock

Thursday, 6:30 pm EDT - 8:00 pm EDT April 16, 2026

The Center for Fiction

Exploring the World of Hans Christian Andersen: A new series of In Short discussions. Registration includes a complimentary drink from our Café & Bar. A link to the story will be emailed upon registration.

Many an ostracized child has been promised that they will be appreciated eventually—that they, too, will one day be recognized for their value. Such is the life of the poor bird at the center of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Ugly Duckling.”

As a group, we’ll discuss this story’s simple didacticism, Andersen’s personal struggles with ugliness, and the story’s darker narrative about bullying, isolation, and violence. We’ll also talk about how this tale has played a role in examining the psychology of fairy tales, his connection with opera singer Jenny Lind, and why it has such a lasting legacy in spite of its simplicity.

What to read in advance of the first meeting: Please read “The Ugly Duckling” in its entirety in advance of the first meeting. A link to the story will be emailed to you upon registration.

What to expect from this reading group: Seminar-style structure with an emphasis on discussion, and supplemental information and history provided by the instructor as helpful.

Led by

Amanda Hollander

Amanda Hollander

Amanda Hollander is a writer and librettist living in Brooklyn. She holds a doctorate in Victorian and children’s literature from UCLA.

About this series

Reading Groups

Whether you’re looking to catch up on great novels or you’re interested in exploring a new writer or literary period, our reading groups offer high-level literary discussion led by experts in the field.

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