<![CDATA[This study aims to examine the representation of children’s feelings of inferiority in the picture book The Day You Begin (2018) by Jacqueline Woodson and to explore how these feelings develop into self-acceptance. The study applies Alfred Adler’s theory of inferiority feelings, which explains that feelings of inferiority arise through social comparison but can also motivate individuals toward personal growth and compensation. Adopting a qualitative literary analysis, this research employs close reading and thematic interpretation of the picture book’s verbal narratives and illustrations to examine children’s emotional experiences. The findings reveal that children’s feelings of inferiority, primarily caused by differences in appearance, language, culture, food, and personal experiences, manifest in insecurity, fear of negative evaluation, social withdrawal, and hesitation to express themselves, while these emotional struggles are gradually transformed into self-acceptance through the courage to share personal experiences and supportive social interactions that foster confidence and a sense of belonging. This study contributes to the existing discussion on children’s literature by demonstrating how picture books can meaningfully represent children’s emotional development and the process of overcoming feelings of inferiority. It also highlights the role of storytelling in promoting empathy, inclusion, and appreciation of diversity, thereby enriching literary studies on children’s emotional experiences and identity formation.]]>
