About this book
"A Clash of Steel: A Treasure Island Remix" by C. B. Lee reimagines the classic tale of piracy and adventure through the lens of queer representation and Asian-inspired cultures. The story follows a daring young woman named Xander as she embarks on a quest for treasure, confronting themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of friendship and loyalty amid treachery on the high seas. This remix is significant for its fresh perspective and inclusivity, bringing new voices to a beloved narrative while exploring the richness of diverse backgrounds in the pirate genre.
Why it was banned
In 2025, "A Clash of Steel: A Treasure Island Remix" by C. B. Lee was banned at the school level in the United States due to its LGBTQ+ content and themes of race and colonialism. The banning authority cited concerns over the book's representation of queer identities and its exploration of complex social issues. There are no documented legal challenges or public statements from the author regarding this ban.
Censorship history
In 2025, "A Clash of Steel: A Treasure Island Remix" by C. B. Lee faced bans in several school districts across the United States due to its LGBTQ+ content and themes related to race and colonialism. Notably, the book was challenged during a school board meeting in a district in Texas, where parents expressed concerns about its appropriateness for students. The ban was upheld following a vote, leading to its removal from school libraries, although the decision has been met with ongoing protests from advocacy groups supporting LGBTQ+ representation in literature.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2025 | LGBTQ+Racial |