Young adult fiction has become a rich literary classification covering all genres, from fantasy to literary fiction to magical realism. The one unifying theme across all YA is a sense of hope in the conclusion-for the protagonist, her community, or even mankind. This class offers specific units which introduce sub-genres of YA through assigned readings and discussion. We will also workshop students' corresponding YA novel excerpts. We will pay close attention to voice and dialogue, as well as study and practice the importance of world building. We will also discuss the importance of representation and the increased visibility of diverse characters in young adult fiction. Assigned readings will focus on young adult literature from the last twenty years and be broken up into sub-genres including fantasy and science fiction ( Grasshopper Jungle By Andrew Smith and Dorthy Must Die By Danielle Paige), literary fiction ( Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz and The Sun Is Also A Star By Nicola Yoon), and magical realism ( Still Life With Tornado by A.S. King and The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender by Leslye Walton).