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Let's face it: American Literature needs an update! My goal as a teacher has always been to present authentic and diverse literature that helps students better understand the world we live in. It's so important to incorporate every aspect of America, including identities that haven't been classically studied in their junior year of high school. Students now more than ever need exciting, engaging literature that makes them want to continue turning the pages. When students want to engage in literature, magic happens, and it's my goal to fan the spark. These novels were hand picked for their fantastic writing, deep and imperative themes, and the diversity they'll add to our study of the way literature reflects society. Too often kids have been made to read books in which they couldn't relate, and sometimes that's a valuable and important experience. However, students need to see themselves in their classroom to fully engage, and #ownvoices novels provide that opportunity. They share stories about identity written by authors who share in that very identity, and can therefore give a primary, authentic, first-hand experience for students to study. Educational theory shows that motivating students intrinsically is imperative to student success. Through incorporating fantasy and young adult books into the canon conversation, we're reminding students that all genres are academic. Value can be found in all sorts of places, especially in the books where they see themselves.