In a cheeky response to his novel being banned from school library shelves in Florida's Collier County, actor Steve Martin took to social media to express mock glee. The book in question, "Shopgirl," is among the hundreds of titles that are being removed from Collier County Public Schools libraries due to a recent bill passed by the Florida Legislature.

The bill allows schools to restrict classroom materials pertaining to gender and sexuality, sparking controversy and prompting Martin's humorous reaction. Taking to Instagram, the actor wrote, "So proud to have my book Shopgirl banned in Collier County, Florida! Now people who want to read it will have to buy a copy!"

Published in 2000, "Shopgirl" is a novella that revolves around the story of a department store sales clerk who falls for an older man. Martin not only wrote the book but also adapted it into a 2005 movie, in which he portrayed the older man while Claire Danes played the clerk.

Known for its disarming tenderness, "Shopgirl" has now found itself in literary company, with other prominent authors also facing bans in Collier County. The authorities have reportedly banned books by Stephen King, Toni Morrison, Margaret Atwood, Alice Walker, and Ernest Hemingway.

Critics have raised concerns about the book restrictions imposed under the administration of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is also a presidential candidate for 2024. One high-profile historian even commented that these actions bear similarities to communism.

As the controversy continues to unfold, supporters of the banned books argue for the importance of diverse literature and the freedom to access a range of perspectives. Meanwhile, Steve Martin's playful response serves as a reminder of the power of humor in navigating contentious situations. With his book "Shopgirl" now off the library shelves, readers who want to experience Martin's literary work will have to purchase their own copies.