Cross-Cultural Adaptation of Illustrations in Translated Children's Books: A Case Study of The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle"

Abstract: This study examines the roles of illustrations in the translation of Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar, it focuses on the interplay between visual and textual elements in childrens’s literature. Through a comparative analysis of the German and Alabanian versions, this research explores how the images not only complement but also guide the translation process, by influencing linguistic choices and cultural adaptations. This book’s minimalistic text is paired with vibrant, symbolic illustrations it highlights the challenges translators face in maintaining narrative coherence and emotional impact across languages. This case study argues that illustrations function as a semiotic system that must be “translated” alongside the text to preserve meaning and accessibility for young readers. Ultimately, the study underscores the necessity of integrating visual literacy into translation studies, especially within the domain of children’s literature.