Banned Camp: Banned Books, Comedy, and Free Speech vs. Censorship
If you think banning books is stupid, so do we.Banned Camp is a comedy podcast where we read banned books and try to figure out why they were banned in the first place.If you’re new here, don’t sweat it. You can start anywhere. We’ll get you oriented fast (and if you get confused, there’s a good chance we’re confused too).Here’s what makes us different: we actually read the book out loud, every chapter, cover to cover, and we’ve never read it before. So you hear us stumble through the text, mispronounce names, miss obvious foreshadowing, and slowly piece together what freaks Moms for Liberty and the pudding-fingered politicians out.Our listeners are called The Scary Book People. You’ll fit right in.Past seasons: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, Slaught...
Episodes

Thursday Jun 06, 2024
Thursday Jun 06, 2024
Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan delve into Chapter 4 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari faces the discomfort of locker room showers, while Jennifer and Dan hilariously dissect modern masculinity, ball tanning trends, and teenage angst. They draw parallels between Ari's experiences and today's social dynamics, adding their signature humor along the way. From Ari’s awkwardness in the pool to his budding friendship with Dante, this episode is packed with relatable moments and insightful commentary.Things To Listen For:Ari's awkward locker room experiences and his aversion to showering with other guys.Dan's hilarious take on ball tanning and Tucker Carlson.Jennifer and Dan's discussion on toxic masculinity and its impact on young men.The introduction of Dante and his offer to teach Ari how to swim.The humorous and touching moments as Ari and Dante bond over their unusual names and common experiences.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: Enjoying Banned Camp? Please take a moment to rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you these insightful and entertaining episodes.Featured Clips: Featured clips include a segment from "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," produced by Spartina Productions and CBS Television Studios, as well as a clip from "Curb Your Enthusiasm," produced by HBO Entertainment. All rights and copyrights are the property of their respective owners and are used here for entertainment and educational purposes under fair use guidelines. No copyright infringement intended.Disclaimer: This podcast, Banned Camp, features readings and discussions of banned books for the purpose of criticism, commentary, education, and entertainment in accordance with fair use guidelines. The material used from the book "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz is shared under these principles, with the intent of provoking thought and discussion about literature, censorship, and societal issues. We do not claim any ownership over the original work, and all copyrights remain with the original copyright holder. We strongly encourage listeners to purchase copies of the discussed works to appreciate them in their original context fully.This podcast is not endorsed by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, his estate, or the publishers of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe." Any monetization of the podcast is separate and not derived directly from the copyrighted material discussed. Our intent is to engage in, promote, and support critical and educational discourse around these works within the framework of fair use.Topics Covered: locker room talk, ball tanning, toxic masculinity, teenage angst, Ari and Dante, friendship, 1980s, swimming lessons, comic books, parental expectations.

Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
Episode SummaryIn this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan embark on their new season with Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. They read chapters 1 through 3, where we meet Ari, a Mexican-American teenager navigating life in El Paso during the summer of 1987. As Ari contemplates his existence and bonds with his mom over music, we get a taste of the book's rich setting and themes. Jennifer and Dan reflect on Ari's struggles with identity and loneliness, peppered with humorous commentary on DJs, '80s music, and family dynamics. The episode is filled with engaging discussions, and as always, they search for any potentially ban-worthy content while enjoying the heartfelt story.Hey Scary Book People!We want to hear from you! What do you think about Ari's relationship with his mom? Can you relate to the generational and cultural differences they experience? Hop over to our Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and share your thoughts. Let's get the conversation going, Scary Book People!Communicate With UsFollow and message us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com.Featured ClipsFeatured clips include a segment from 'La Bamba' by Los Lobos, and a clip from the classic Lone Ranger TV theme. All rights and copyrights are the property of their respective owners and are used here for entertainment and educational purposes under fair use guidelines. No copyright infringement intended.Disclaimer"Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' by Benjamin Alire Sáenz aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' remains under the copyright holder's ownership. We encourage supporting the original author by obtaining copies of their works. Please note that our podcast is not officially connected with Benjamin Alire Sáenz, his estate, or the publishers of 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe.' Any monetization related to the podcast is separate from the copyrighted content discussed. We aim to foster educational dialogue and appreciation of these works, operating within the fair use framework."

Thursday May 09, 2024
Thursday May 09, 2024
Episode Summary:In this dramatic finale of Banned Camp's season 5 exploring A Wrinkle in Time, Dan and Jennifer dive into the climactic chapter where Meg faces IT in a battle of wills. As Meg channels the power of love to save Charles Wallace, our hosts dissect the profound themes of love, courage, and individuality that ripple through this ending. This episode unpacks the pivotal moments defining Meg's journey and examines the implications of Madeleine L'Engle's messages against societal conformity and the dangers of centralized control. Join us as we reflect on the entire book and its resonating message about the strength found in vulnerability and the transformative power of love.Hey, Scary Book People!We want to hear from you! What are your thoughts on Meg's journey and her ultimate decision to confront IT with love? Have you ever experienced a moment where choosing love over fear changed the outcome? Pop over to our Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and let us know. Dive into the discussion and share your insights with fellow listeners!Communicate With Us:Keep up with all things Banned Camp by following us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast. Feel free to send us your thoughts and suggestions, or just say hello through our email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com.Featured Clips:This episode’s featured clips include a memorable line from "The Blues Brothers" with the iconic "We're on a mission from God," a tune from "Aunt Bee" by The Liberty Photoshop Crew celebrating the wholesome vibes of Aunt Beast, and a thrilling excerpt from Prince’s “Let's Go Crazy” that perfectly captures the episode's climactic energy.Disclaimer:Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books, all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work A Wrinkle in Time remains under the copyright holder's ownership. We encourage supporting the original author by obtaining copies of their works. Please note that our podcast is not officially connected with Madeleine L'Engle, her estate, or the publishers of A Wrinkle in Time. Any monetization related to the podcast is separate from the copyrighted content discussed. We aim to foster educational dialogue and appreciation of these works, operating within the fair use framework.

Tuesday May 07, 2024
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Episode Summary:In this gripping installment of Banned Camp, Dan and Jennifer navigate through Chapter 11 of Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time. Amidst the chilling vastness of a strange planet, Meg confronts not only the eerie plant-like creatures but also her mounting fears and frustrations. Our hosts deftly capture the escalating tension and the peculiar encounters that challenge the protagonists of the story. This episode delves deep into the interactions between Meg, her family, and the mysterious beings, uncovering layers of complexity in L'Engle's celebrated narrative. Tune in as we explore whether these narrative elements could be deemed ban-worthy and how they resonate with ongoing debates about censorship and the role of challenging content in children's literature.Hey Scary Book People!We'd love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode! What did you think about Meg's reactions to the beasts? Have you ever found yourself sympathizing with a character who's stuck in a tough spot? Swing by our Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast to share your views and join the conversation. Let’s keep it light and fun – no homework, we promise!Communicate With Us:Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and drop us a line at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. We’re eager to hear from you!This episode’s featured clips include a segment from "The Blues Brothers" where the iconic phrase "We're on a mission from God" captures the spirited resolve of the characters.Disclaimer:Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books, all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work A Wrinkle in Time remains under the copyright holder's ownership. We encourage supporting the original author by obtaining copies of their works. Please note that our podcast is not officially connected with Madeleine L'Engle, her estate, or the publishers of A Wrinkle in Time. Any monetization related to the podcast is separate from the copyrighted content discussed. We aim to foster educational dialogue and appreciation of these works, operating within the fair use framework.

Thursday May 02, 2024
Thursday May 02, 2024
Hey Scary Book People (that's what we call our AWESOME listeners)! Ready to dive into a chilly adventure? In today’s episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan explore Chapter 10 of "A Wrinkle in Time." From tessering dangers to icy receptions, Meg’s journey continues to unfold with suspense and a hint of the supernatural. But why does this chapter make some want to ban the book? Tune in as we peel back the layers of this frosty narrative.Here’s a quick rundown of what happened:Meg’s Tessering Ordeal: Meg wakes up feeling paralyzed and icy cold, struggling to communicate with her father and Calvin, who are trying to reassure and warm her up amidst mysterious and daunting circumstances.Cosmic Reflections: The discussions veer into deep territory, touching on the nature of time, space, and personal limits. It’s not just about the physical journey but these characters' mental and emotional trials.Mystical Encounters: They encounter strange, tentacled beings, adding an extra layer of eerie intrigue. Could these beings be friends or foes?Communicate With Us: We love hearing your thoughts! Did this chapter's depiction of cosmic trials stir something in you? How do you feel about the metaphysical discussions? Join the conversation on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast or email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com.Disclaimer: "Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of 'A Wrinkle in Time' by Madeleine L'Engle aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work 'A Wrinkle in Time' remains under the copyright holder's ownership. We encourage supporting the original author by obtaining copies of their works. Please note that our podcast is not officially connected with Madeleine L'Engle, her estate, or the publishers of 'A Wrinkle in Time.' Any monetization related to the podcast is separate from the copyrighted content discussed. We aim to foster educational dialogue and appreciation of these works, operating within the fair use framework."

Tuesday Apr 30, 2024
Tuesday Apr 30, 2024
Episode Summary:In this gripping episode of "Banned Camp," Jennifer and Dan read Chapter 9 of "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L'Engle. As Meg confronts the chilling entity known only as IT, the stakes are higher than ever. Jennifer and dan unravel the tense moments when Meg, armed with only her willpower and Mrs. Who's spectacles, attempts to rescue her father and confront the ominous brain that controls the sinister world of Camazotz.Hey Scary Book People (that's what we call our AWESOME listeners)! We just dove into a spine-chilling chapter of "A Wrinkle in Time" where Meg battles the mysterious IT. What's the scariest book or chapter you've ever read? Did it give you the creeps like Meg's journey through Camazotz? Share your eerie readings with us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and join the discussion. Let's explore the shadows of literature together—keep it fun, and no spoilers, please!Communicate With Us:Stay connected with us and dive deeper into the world of banned books! Follow and message us on Instagram at bannedcamp_podcast and feel free to drop us an email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. We love hearing from our listeners and engaging with the community that shares our passion for challenging censorship and exploring complex literature.This episode features a clip from "Late Night with the Devil," Directed by Kevin Kopacka, produced by Lola Danner, and distributed by Hysteria Film,. All rights and copyrights are the property of their respective owners and are used here for entertainment and educational purposes under fair use guidelines. No copyright infringement intended. Disclaimer:Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books, all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L'Engle aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work remains under the copyright holder's ownership. We encourage supporting the original author by obtaining copies of their works. Please note that our podcast is not officially connected with Madeleine L'Engle, her estate, or the publishers of "A Wrinkle in Time." Any monetization related to the podcast is separate from the copyrighted content discussed. We aim to foster educational dialogue and appreciation of these works, operating within the fair use framework.

Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Welcome back to Banned Camp, where we're diving deep into the eerie world of A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle. In this episode, Jennifer and Dan read chapter 8, taking us through a thrilling exploration of Camazotz. On this planet, conformity reigns, and individuality is crushed under the weight of a singular, controlling mind.This time, our hosts tackle the sinister developments in Camazotz, as Meg, Calvin, and Charles Wallace confront the chilling reality of a society where "IT" holds sway. Jennifer reads passages that reveal the trio's struggle against the homogenization of thought and Charles Wallace's chilling loss to IT's influence. Dan theorizes about the mechanisms of control and the implications of fear as a tool for compliance, drawing eerie parallels to real-world dictatorships.After reading that last paragraph, Dan thinks AI makes him sound smarter than he is. Anywho...If you're enjoying our podcast journey together, please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help others find us and can make a world of difference. Plus, if you haven't already, follow us so you never miss out on our latest episodes. Your support means the world to us, and together, we're making this podcast better with every episode.Featured clips include a segment from 'Happy Boy' by The Beat Farmers, composed by Dane Conover and Jeff Becker. Mark Linett and Steve Berlin produced the track. Rhino Records released it and Sony Music Australia Limited distributed it. All rights and copyrights are the property of their respective owners and are used here for entertainment and educational purposes under fair use guidelines. No copyright infringement is intended.Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, or our website, or drop us an email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com to share your thoughts and feedback!Disclaimer:Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books, all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of 'A Wrinkle in Time' by Madeline L'Engle aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work 'A Wrinkle in Time' remains under the copyright holder's ownership. We encourage supporting the original author by obtaining copies of their works. Please note that our podcast is not officially connected with Madeline L'Engle, her estate, or the publishers of 'A Wrinkle in Time.' Any monetization related to the podcast is separate from the copyrighted content discussed. We aim to foster educational dialogue and appreciation of these works, operating within the fair use framework.

Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Episode Summary:In this gripping episode, Dan and Jennifer dive into Chapter 7 of "A Wrinkle in Time," where Meg, Calvin, and Charles Wallace confront the daunting Central Central Intelligence on Kamazots. As the trio ventures deeper into this eerie world, they encounter psychological and physical challenges that test their resolve and unity. The chapter's chilling climax reveals the sinister force manipulating their every move, leading to a tense showdown that hints at darker forces. The discussion explores autonomy, fear, and manipulating the mind as our hosts unpack the events and their implications.Hey, Scary Book People!Got thoughts on Meg's decisions or Charles Wallace's bravery? Swing by our Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and let us know! How would you deal with being in a place as creepy as Kamazots? Join the conversation and share your takes!Communicate With Us:Don’t be a stranger! Follow us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and drop us a line at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. We’re always eager to hear from our listeners—your insights enrich our community!This episode's featured clips include a segment from the animated TV show Beavis and Butt-Head, directed by Mike Judge and produced by MTV Networks, and a song clip from "Breaking the Law" by Judas Priest, produced by Tom Allom. All rights and copyrights are the property of their respective owners and are used here for entertainment and educational purposes under fair use guidelines. No copyright infringement is intended.Disclaimer:Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books, all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of 'A Wrinkle in Time' by Madeline L'Engle aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work 'A Wrinkle in Time' remains under the copyright holder's ownership. We encourage supporting the original author by obtaining copies of their works. Please note that our podcast is not officially connected with Madeline L'Engle, her estate, or the publishers of 'A Wrinkle in Time.' Any monetization related to the podcast is separate from the copyrighted content discussed. We aim to foster educational dialogue and appreciation of these works, operating within the fair use framework.

Thursday Apr 18, 2024
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
Episode SummaryIn this engaging episode, Jennifer and Dan navigate through the eerily synchronized world of "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeline L'Engle. Dive into their journey as they dissect the mechanical monotony of Camazotz and the unsettling uniformity that pervades the town. The duo discusses the peculiarities of a society where every action is disturbingly in sync, questioning the implications of such a rigidly structured existence. Is it a dystopian reflection of our societal struggles with conformity and control? Hey, Scary Book People!We spotted some truly creepy synchronicity in this chapter of "A Wrinkle in Time." What's the most unsettling form of conformity you've ever encountered? Drop your thoughts on our Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and join the conversation. Let's unravel these rhythmic mysteries together!Communicate With UsGot something to say? We’re all ears! Follow and message us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast or shoot us an email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. We’d love to hear your thoughts!This episode includes a segment from "The Fuller Brush Man," a classic comedy featuring Red Skelton. This movie, directed by S. Sylvan Simon and produced by Norman Panama, is distributed by MGM. You can also watch the 1948 movie trailer credited in this YouTube video: Watch on YouTube. All rights and copyrights are reserved by their respective owners, used here under fair use guidelines.DisclaimerBanned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books, all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeline L'Engle aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work remains under the copyright holder's ownership. We encourage supporting the original author by obtaining copies of their works. Please note that our podcast is not officially connected with Madeline L'Engle, her estate, or the publishers of "A Wrinkle in Time." Any monetization related to the podcast is separate from the copyrighted content discussed. We aim to foster educational dialogue and appreciation of these works, operating within the fair use framework.

Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
Episode Summary:Join Jennifer and Dan as they read the first half of Chapter 6 of "A Wrinkle in Time," where the narrative deeply explores the ongoing battle between light and darkness. This episode profoundly analyzes how Madeleine L’Engle's portrayal of cosmic conflicts mirrors the real-world challenges against literary censorship. As the characters confront the dark forces, listeners are invited to reflect on themes of courage and sacrifice, which resonate within the broader context of freedom of expression.The episode unfolds a thoughtful discussion on the star's sacrifice, linking it to the broader theme of standing firm in the face of adversarial forces—both in literature and life. It's an exploration that encourages listeners to consider their own moments of resilience against metaphorical darkness.Hey Scary Book People! What are your thoughts on depicting light versus dark in "A Wrinkle in Time"? Have these themes touched you personally or in your view of society? Drop us a line on our Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and share your experiences or thoughts!Communicate With Us:Stay connected! Follow Jennifer and Dan on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast or email us your thoughts at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. We're keen to hear from you!DisclaimerBanned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of 'A Wrinkle in Time' by Madeleine L'Engle aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work 'A Wrinkle in Time' remains under the copyright holder's ownership. We encourage supporting the original author by obtaining copies of their works. Please note that our podcast is not officially connected with Madeleine L'Engle, her estate, or the publishers of 'A Wrinkle in Time.' Any monetization related to the podcast is separate from the copyrighted content discussed. We aim to foster educational dialogue and appreciation of these works, operating within the fair use framework.
