📖 Overview
C.B. Lee is an Asian American author known primarily for writing young adult science fiction and fantasy novels featuring LGBTQ+ and diverse characters. Her most recognized work is the Sidekick Squad series, which began with Not Your Sidekick (2016) and spans multiple books following teenage superheroes.
Lee's writing frequently explores themes of identity, family relationships, and social justice while incorporating elements of science fiction, superhero narratives, and speculative fiction. Her work has received recognition for its representation of queer and Asian American characters in leading roles.
The author's background in sociology and nonprofit work influences her storytelling approach, particularly in how she addresses systemic inequalities and community dynamics within her fictional worlds. Lee has also contributed to several anthologies focusing on diverse voices in science fiction and fantasy.
Beyond her young adult works, Lee writes middle grade fiction and participates in panels and discussions about diversity in literature. She resides in Los Angeles, where she continues to write while being involved in various LGBTQ+ and Asian American community organizations.
👀 Reviews
Readers connect with Lee's authentic representation of LGBTQ+ and Asian American characters, praising her natural integration of identity themes without overshadowing the main storylines. Multiple reviews highlight the accessible writing style and relatable teenage protagonists.
Liked:
- Diverse cast that feels genuine rather than tokenized
- Fun, light tone balanced with meaningful themes
- Strong family dynamics and friendships
- Quick-paced plotting keeps younger readers engaged
Disliked:
- Some readers found world-building lacks depth
- Plot developments can be predictable
- Writing style described as "simple" by adult readers
- Romance subplots move slowly
Ratings:
Not Your Sidekick (Goodreads): 3.8/5 from 6,000+ ratings
Amazon average across books: 4.2/5
Barnes & Noble: 4.1/5
Review quotes:
"Finally superhero stories that reflect real diversity" - Goodreads reviewer
"Great for young teens but may be too straightforward for adult readers" - Amazon review
"Characters feel like real people rather than diversity checkboxes" - Barnes & Noble review
📚 Books by C.B. Lee
Not Your Sidekick - A bisexual teenage girl without superpowers takes an internship with her city's most notorious supervillain in a futuristic world where heroes and villains are commonplace.
Not Your Villain - A transgender shapeshifter uncovers a conspiracy while trying to clear his name after being framed as a supervillain.
Not Your Backup - The younger sister of a superhero leads a rebellion against the corrupt Heroes' League of Heroes while questioning the entire hero-villain system.
Not Your Hero - A telekinetic teen navigates both his powers and his aromantic identity while uncovering dark secrets about his superhero training program.
Seven Tears at High Tide - A teenage boy meets a selkie who can only remain human for one summer, leading to a romance affected by magic and the sea.
A Clash of Steel: A Treasure Island Remix - A Chinese pirate's daughter searches for treasure in the South China Sea in this 1826 reimagining of Treasure Island.
Not Your Villain - A transgender shapeshifter uncovers a conspiracy while trying to clear his name after being framed as a supervillain.
Not Your Backup - The younger sister of a superhero leads a rebellion against the corrupt Heroes' League of Heroes while questioning the entire hero-villain system.
Not Your Hero - A telekinetic teen navigates both his powers and his aromantic identity while uncovering dark secrets about his superhero training program.
Seven Tears at High Tide - A teenage boy meets a selkie who can only remain human for one summer, leading to a romance affected by magic and the sea.
A Clash of Steel: A Treasure Island Remix - A Chinese pirate's daughter searches for treasure in the South China Sea in this 1826 reimagining of Treasure Island.
👥 Similar authors
Malinda Lo writes science fiction and fantasy with queer Asian-American protagonists navigating identity while solving mysteries or facing supernatural threats. Her work incorporates Chinese mythology and folklore in contemporary settings, similar to Lee's integration of cultural elements.
F.T. Lukens focuses on LGBTQ+ characters in fantasy and science fiction adventures with found family dynamics. Their stories feature characters discovering their powers while building relationships and fighting against systemic oppression.
Mason Deaver creates stories about trans and nonbinary teens finding their place in the world through friendship and romance. Their work centers on character growth and self-discovery within supportive communities.
Rebecca Kim Wells writes fantasy featuring queer Asian protagonists who challenge authority and expectations. Her stories blend magic, mythology, and resistance movements with themes of family loyalty.
Alex London crafts science fiction and fantasy with LGBTQ+ characters at the center of resistance movements and social change. His work explores power dynamics and revolution through the lens of marginalized characters finding their strength.
F.T. Lukens focuses on LGBTQ+ characters in fantasy and science fiction adventures with found family dynamics. Their stories feature characters discovering their powers while building relationships and fighting against systemic oppression.
Mason Deaver creates stories about trans and nonbinary teens finding their place in the world through friendship and romance. Their work centers on character growth and self-discovery within supportive communities.
Rebecca Kim Wells writes fantasy featuring queer Asian protagonists who challenge authority and expectations. Her stories blend magic, mythology, and resistance movements with themes of family loyalty.
Alex London crafts science fiction and fantasy with LGBTQ+ characters at the center of resistance movements and social change. His work explores power dynamics and revolution through the lens of marginalized characters finding their strength.