The Ugly Five

The Ugly Five: A Joyful Celebration of Unconventional Beauty

In this delightful picture book, acclaimed author and illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler bring to life a group of safari animals that are often overlooked, yet undeniably lovable in their own unique ways. Meet the wildebeest, warthog, vulture, hyena, and marabou stork the Ugly Five as they proudly strut across the African savannah, rejoicing in their unconventional beauty. The story begins with a picturesque scene of the African plain at dawn, where the lion is busy grooming his majestic mane. The kudu looks cool, the rhino looks fine, and the bright pink flamingos look simply divine. But just as you think it s all about the beautiful animals, along comes the Ugly Five, each one showcasing their own peculiar charm. The wildebeest, with its shaggy coat and wonky antlers, is delighted by its reflection in a mirror pool. The warthog, with its misshapen tusks and wrinkled skin, prances proudly alongside its baby, who thinks Mom is the most beautiful thing it s ever seen. The vulture, with its scrappy feathers and sharp beak, looks magnificent as it soars through the skies. The hyena, with its spotted coat and goofy grin, howls with joy, accompanied by its giggling babies. And the marabou stork, with its gangly legs and oversized bill, struts around like a supermodel on the catwalk. Throughout the book, Scheffler s stunning illustrations bring these lovable outcasts to life, showcasing their unique features in vivid detail. The text is filled with clever rhymes and playful language that will have children giggling along with the animals antics. From the shimmering foil highlights on the cover to the intricate details within the pages, this book is a visual treat that will captivate young readers. But

The Ugly Five

is more than just a humorous romp through the animal kingdom. It s also a celebration of selfacceptance, family, and friendship. Each of these creatures may not fit the traditional mold of beauty, but they re all confident in their own skin or should we say, feathers, tusks, and scales! The book is full of heartwarming moments between parents and children, showing that love knows no bounds, regardless of how unconventional one might be. Donaldson and Scheffler s previous collaborations have been huge successes, including the beloved

Gruffalo

series. Now, they ve brought their unique blend of humor, wit, and whimsy to this charming tale of unloved animals finding their beauty in each other. With its universal message of selfacceptance and its irresistible rhymes,

The Ugly Five

is sure to delight readers of all ages.

Praise for The Ugly Five:


Donaldson s exuberant verse and Scheffler s strong, inimitable style are splendidly suited to these underrated, cheerful grotesques, and evoke the love between parents and children of every species.

The Guardian


Another fabulous story for two to eightyyear olds... What bliss from the creators of The Gruffalo!

The Oldie


Funny, catchy and gleeful... it s irresistible rhymes trip off the tongue... Axel s pictures are witty and full of character

BBC Wildlife Magazine



Get ready to join the Ugly Five on their joyful journey!