This study investigates the impact of culturally relevant literature on behavioural, emotional, and cognitive engagement among secondary school students in Awka, Anambra State. Guided by Culturally Relevant Pedagogy (CRP), the research adopted a descriptive survey of 80 SS2 students and 20 teachers across five schools. Data were gathered through a two-point questionnaire and interviews and analysed using mean, standard deviation, and thematic analysis. Results reveal that culturally relevant literature significantly enhances attention, participation, comprehension, motivation, and cultural identity, while also encouraging collaborative learning. Nevertheless, challenges such as inadequate resources, curriculum rigidity, limited teacher training, and language barriers constrain effective implementation. The study recommends curriculum reforms, regular teacher training, and increased access to Nigerian-authored texts to optimise the benefits of culturally relevant literature.