This article examines the crucial role of illustrations in children's and young adult literature, focusing on the extent to which visual elements influence translation decisions. It explores the dynamic interplay between text and image, the cultural dimensions of illustrations, and the challenges of adapting visual content across linguistic and cultural boundaries. Using Michael Ende's Jim Knopf und Lukas der Lokomotivführer as a case study—comparing the original German edition with its Albanian translation—the article analyzes how illustrations contribute uniquely to the reading experience of young audiences. It questions whether illustrations should be considered part of the translation process and evaluates the differences observed between the two versions. The analysis sheds light on whether the illustrations were retained, modified, offering a providing an overview based on comparative examples in children's literature.