Can I calculate the number of #OwnVoices books from your data?

First, it’s important to note that the way in which individuals interpret or define the term #OwnVoices may vary.

In general, the answer is no, it is not possible to calculate the number of #OwnVoices books from our numbers alone. Not only because the the  “By” and “About” data aren’t directly aligned (not every book “By” is “About,” and vice versa), but #OwnVoices is a term with a meaning tied to specific identity and experience, which is not captured in these broad categorizations. The information we document for each book regarding culturally specific content, and for book creators documenting their culturally specific identities, is necessary to determine if that book might be meet a particular definition of #OwnVoices.