Picture a Chinese-Vietnamese-American storyteller weaving tales of queer superheroes and swashbuckling pirates—meet C.B. Lee! Based in Los Angeles, this New York Times bestselling author has carved a vibrant niche in young adult science fiction and fantasy. With their Sidekick Squad series and a knack for blending identity, social justice, and adventure, Lee’s work resonates with readers craving inclusive, heartfelt stories.
Lee’s journey is as compelling as their novels. As a bisexual author open about their mental health struggles, they bring authenticity and empathy to their characters, making them a beacon for diverse representation in literature. Let’s dive into the world of C.B. Lee and discover why their stories are unforgettable.
The Making of C.B. Lee
Born to Vietnamese and Chinese immigrant parents, C.B. Lee grew up with a rich cultural tapestry that shapes their storytelling. Initially drawn to science, Lee pursued academia but found their true calling in writing. Their love for adventure, fantasy, and inclusive narratives stemmed from a desire to create the stories they craved as a queer teen. This passion led to their debut novel, Seven Tears at High Tide, a magical tale of love and selkies, published in 2015.
Lee’s early career was marked by a commitment to authenticity. Drawing from their bicultural identity and experiences as a queer individual, they crafted stories that celebrate diversity while challenging genre norms. Their work quickly gained traction, earning praise from outlets like Teen Vogue and Wired for its fresh perspective.
C.B. Lee’s Unforgettable Stories
Lee’s bibliography is a treasure trove of adventure and heart. The Sidekick Squad series, starting with Not Your Sidekick (2016), is a standout. Set in a futuristic world of superheroes, it follows Jess Tran, a bisexual teen without powers, navigating internships, crushes, and a corrupt government. The series, including Not Your Villain, Not Your Backup, and Not Your Hero, blends thrilling sci-fi with themes of identity and resistance, inspired by Lee’s love for X-Men.
Another gem is A Clash of Steel: A Treasure Island Remix (2021), a Junior Library Guild selection. This sapphic retelling follows two girls hunting treasure in the South China Sea, infused with Chinese and Vietnamese culture and the legacy of pirate queen Zheng Yi Sao. Lee’s research into historical documents brought depth to this vivid adventure. Additionally, Minecraft: The Shipwreck, a New York Times bestseller, showcases Lee’s versatility, crafting a friendship-driven tale in the beloved gaming universe.
Lee’s style is accessible yet profound, weaving humor, romance, and social commentary into fast-paced plots. Their characters—queer, diverse, and relatable—grapple with self-discovery and systemic injustice, making their stories both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Why C.B. Lee Matters
C.B. Lee’s impact on young adult literature is profound. Their inclusive storytelling amplifies marginalized voices, offering representation for queer and BIPOC readers. Awards like the Lambda Literary Award nomination and Rainbow Award win for Seven Tears at High Tide highlight their influence. By deconstructing superhero tropes and exploring bicultural identity, Lee challenges readers to question societal norms and embrace their authentic selves.
Lee’s work also fosters hope. As they’ve shared in interviews, their stories aim to show queer teens they belong—in the past, present, and future. This mission, paired with their engaging narratives, cements Lee as a vital voice in contemporary literature, inspiring a new generation of readers and writers.
- Key Works: Sidekick Squad series, A Clash of Steel, Minecraft: The Shipwreck
- Awards: Rainbow Award (2016), Lambda Literary Award Finalist (2017)
- Based In: Los Angeles, California
- Cultural Roots: Chinese-Vietnamese-American
About C.B. Lee
Snag Not Your Sidekick or A Clash of Steel and dive into C.B. Lee’s thrilling, inclusive worlds! Whether you’re a superhero fan or a pirate enthusiast, their stories will leave you inspired and eager for more.