Not Good Enough

By Bao Chau Van

The Not Good Enough Book is an illustrated comic that follows a Vietnamese American character navigating immigration, cultural adaptation, and the search for belonging in a new country. The story gently explores how feelings of being “not good enough”  arise in the journey.

Guided by an Internal Family Systems–informed approach, each page introduces the reader to different inner parts—such as the Worrier, the Inner critic, or the Protector—that emerge in response to fear, difference, and uncertainty.

As the story unfolds, the character learns to notice these parts with curiosity, listen to their concerns with kindness, and respond with compassion. Through this inner dialogue, the character begins to build a sense of connection—both within themselves and with others—leading toward greater balance and belonging.

The Not Good Enough Book offers adolescent readers an introduction to emotional awareness, self-compassion, and cultural identity. By noticing our inside and outside experiences and highlighting the power of understanding one’s internal world, the book supports  developing awareness, empathy, and a felt sense of harmony—through curiosity with the inside and outside.