Every once in a while I don't get pictures to load. It usually happens when I just hold enter to get the whole text at once. That said, often restarting helps.
Now, one thing to try would be start a new game, hit view, option, and uncheck the box for show graphics. Hit ok then open and recheck the box. Next, hit ctrl+g. This will open a window just for the graphics. I find I like the pics to the side so they don't jack up the text. Also it leaves the last pic loaded no matter what you have done so you always have something nice to look at.
You will probably have to click the pic a few times until it fits the way you want. (actual size, stretch, fit to window, etc) Once adjusted to the right setting all the pics will come on in the same way.
Give it a try.