TITLE:
A Multimodal Metaphor Perspective on the Globalization of English Translations of Chinese Children’s Picture Books: A Case Study of Book Covers
AUTHORS:
Chen Yang
KEYWORDS:
Multimodal Metaphor, English Translation of Children’s Picture Books, Cover Design, Cross-Cultural Communication, Domestication, Foreignization
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.13 No.2,
February
12,
2026
ABSTRACT: This study examines the influence mechanism of cover design in English translations of Chinese children’s picture books on cultural transmission from a multimodal metaphor perspective. By analyzing representative picture books, such as The Water Dragon, and Reunion, it becomes clear that a complex interplay exists among visual symbols, color metaphors, and typography, collectively constructing a metaphorical system for cross-cultural communication. Research indicates that successful cover designs often achieve a creative translation of multimodal metaphors, preserving Chinese cultural characteristics while adapting to the cognitive habits of international readers. From the ideological perspective, such designs skillfully integrate translation strategies of domestication and foreignization. This paper proposes that cover designs for English translations of Chinese children’s picture books should emphasize the modern reconfiguration of symbols, the cross-cultural adaptation of colors, the visual treatment of text, and the distillation of universal themes. This approach maximizes cultural transmission during the initial visual impression stage.