About this book
"It's Not Like It's a Secret" by Misa Sugiura follows the story of Sana Kiyohara, a Japanese-American high school student navigating the complexities of family, friendship, and her budding sexual identity as she develops feelings for her new classmate, Jamie. The novel explores themes of self-acceptance, cultural identity, and the challenges of coming out in a diverse environment. Its significance lies in its authentic representation of LGBTQ+ youth and the intersection of cultural backgrounds, providing a relatable narrative for readers grappling with their own identities.
Censorship history
In 2025, "It's Not Like It's a Secret" by Misa Sugiura faced bans in several school districts across the United States, primarily 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 voiced concerns about its appropriateness for students. The ban was upheld following a vote by the school board, reflecting ongoing tensions surrounding discussions of diversity and sexual identity in educational settings.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2025 | LGBTQ+Racial |
