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 Apr 11, 2024
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
Episode SummaryThis week on Banned Camp, Jennifer, Dan, and our occasionally sassy robot dive into the peculiar world of banned books without reading a single page! Instead, we're opening up the mailbag to see what you, our fellow scary book people, have been wondering about. From the digital frontlines of book bans to the global reach of censorship, we're covering it all. And by the time this episode is over, you'll know why even a sushi-loving kitten isn't safe from the ban hammer.Join Our CommunityGot a banned book that blew your socks off or just need to vent about the latest ludicrous book ban? Jump into our community on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and Facebook @bannedcamp_podcast. Let's create a book-loving brigade that censorship can't conquer!Communicate With UsWe're always on the lookout for more scary book people to join our ranks. Follow us on our socials, slide into our DMs, or shoot us an email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Your thoughts, suggestions, and book recommendations are what keep our campfires burning!

Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Episode Summary:In this episode of Banned Camp, Jen and Dan read Chapter 5 of "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L'Engle. Our journey through the tesseract takes us beyond the confines of our universe, revealing not just the cosmic battles between light and darkness but also the rich tapestry of characters who navigate these challenges. Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin, accompanied by Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which, embark on a mission that's as much about understanding the universe as it is about understanding themselves. From humorous attempts at voice acting to insightful debates about dimensions and the nature of evil, this episode is a vibrant exploration of L'Engle's imaginative world. Join us as we attempt to unravel the mysteries of the tesseract, confront the dark shadow threatening Earth, and ponder the list of humanity's greatest contributors to the fight against darkness, ranging from Jesus to Einstein. It's a journey through space and time that promises to leave you pondering long after you've listened.Hey Scary Book People (that's what we call our AWESOME listeners)! We want to hear from you: How do you think you'd navigate the complexities of a tesseract? Or, which historical figure would you add to the roster of those fighting the darkness alongside Meg and her companions? Share your thoughts, theories, or favorite chapter moments with us on Instagram at @bannedcamp_podcast. Let's dive into the cosmic unknown together—no astronaut suit required. Keep it fun and engaging, and let's keep turning the pages on those banned books!Communicate With Us: Want more cosmic adventures and literary banter? Follow us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast, and don't hesitate to drop us a message. Got more to say? Email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. We're all ears for your thoughts, theories, and love for banned books. Follow us here.Featured Clips: This episode includes a segment from the "A Wrinkle in Time" Disney movie trailer and a clip from The 5th Dimension's "Up, Up and Away." All rights and copyrights belong to their respective owners, used here for entertainment and educational purposes under fair use guidelines.Banworthy to Bingeworthy: Don't miss our friends Nicole and Eden at the Burn This Book podcast, who recently covered "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" in a fantastic episode! They dive deep into Twain's controversial classic with wit and wisdom. Find them on your favorite podcast app and see what banned books they're bringing into the limelight.Disclaimer: Banned Camp brings engaging discussions and readings of banned books within fair use guidelines. Our exploration of "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L'Engle is 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. Our podcast aims to foster educational dialogue and appreciation of these works, operating within the fair use framework.

Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Episode Summary:Welcome back, scary book people! In this episode, we're on a cosmic voyage with Meg, Calvin, and Charles Wallace, exploring the universe's eerie unknown and breathtaking beauty in Chapter 4 of "A Wrinkle in Time." From the depths of a terrifying void to the serene landscapes of Uriel and a nerve-wracking encounter with the shadow, Dan and Jennifer guide us through the highs and lows, all while providing their trademark wit. And don't miss our dive into an SNL classic featuring Kevin Nealon, Dana Carvey, and Michael J. Fox that might just have you humming "Gonna Go Back in Time." Join us as we unravel what makes this chapter uniquely intriguing and potentially ban-worthy.Hey Scary Book People! We want to hear from you:Ever stare into the night sky and feel something staring back? This episode brought us face-to-face with the cosmos’s beauty and shadows. Have you encountered anything that left you awestruck or a little on edge? Drop by our Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and share your cosmic encounters or shadowy moments. Let's chat about the mysteries of the universe or just share a good laugh over our fears.Communicate With Us:Your thoughts are like stars; we're eager to see them shine! Connect with us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast or via email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Your insights and stories brighten our community.Featured Clips:This episode includes a "Saturday Night Live" segment featuring Kevin Nealon, Dana Carvey, and Michael J. Fox, which is used under fair use guidelines for educational and entertainment purposes. "Saturday Night Live is a trademark of NBCUniversal Media, LLC. All rights and copyrights are retained by their respective owners.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 02, 2024
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
Episode Summary:In this captivating episode, Jen and Dan explore Chapter 3 of "A Wrinkle in Time," where Meg, Calvin, and Charles Wallace's adventure turns into the unknown. The chapter weaves a tale of cosmic intrigue, youthful romance, and the enduring quest for understanding. As the trio embarks on a journey led by a mysterious trio of witches, they confront the possibilities of love, the essence of family bonds, and the yearning for their missing father. With their signature blend of insight and levity, Jen and Dan dissect the layers of L'Engle's storytelling, pondering the balance of science and faith, the complexities of adolescence, and the book's contentious stance on conformity and authority. Tune in to this episode of "Banned Camp" for a journey through time, space, and the intricacies of human emotion, all while navigating the turbulent waters of literary censorship.Hey Scary Book People (that's what we call our AWESOME listeners)! We want to hear from you:Did Chapter 3's blend of cosmic mystery and young love tug at your heartstrings, or did it leave you pondering the greater mysteries of the universe? How do you think L'Engle's portrayal of young romance contributes to the story's depth? Slide into our DMs or hit us up with your thoughts, theories, and feelings on our latest dive into "A Wrinkle in Time" at our Instagram handle @bannedcamp_podcast. Let's unravel these cosmic conundrums together!Communicate With Us:Got thoughts, theories, or just want to share your love for banned books? Follow and message us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and shoot us an email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. We're all ears for your insights, laughter, and shared frustrations about book banning. Let's keep the conversation going!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 Mar 28, 2024
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
Episode Summary:In this chapter of "A Wrinkle in Time," Meg and Charles Wallace find themselves wrapped in the enigmatic folds of Mrs. Whatsit's secrets. As they navigate through the aftermath of a stormy night, questions about their father's mysterious disappearance and Mrs. Whatsit's true identity begin to surface. With the introduction of Calvin O'Keefe, a new ally, the trio embarks on a journey that promises to unravel the fabric of their understanding. A visit to the so-called haunted house reveals not just stolen sheets, but hints at a deeper, cosmic connection that challenges everything they know. Join Jennifer, Dan, and Robot as they peel back the layers of this intriguing chapter, drawing parallels to real-world curiosities and weaving through the themes of trust, mystery, and the power of the unknown.Hey Scary Book People (that's what we call our AWESOME listeners)!Got a theory about Mrs. Whatsit and her pals? Or how about that eerie haunted house? We're all ears over at @bannedcamp_podcast! Drop us a comment with your wildest guesses or theories. Who knows? Your idea might just be the key to unlocking this mystery. Don't be a stranger; dive into the discussion!Communicate With Us:Can't get enough of these interstellar mysteries? Neither can we! Make sure you're following us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast for all the behind-the-scenes fun and updates. Got something more to say? We're all ears at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Slide into our DMs or shoot us an email. Let's make the universe of banned books a little smaller, together.Featured Clips:This episode features a classic snippet from "The Simpsons - The Shining (Treehouse of Horror V)" directed by Jim Reardon, produced by David S. Cohen, and distributed by 20th Television. All rights and copyrights belong to their respective owners, used here for entertainment and educational purposes under fair use guidelines.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 Mar 26, 2024
Tuesday Mar 26, 2024
Episode Summary: In this kickoff to Season 5, Jennifer, Dan and Robot dive headfirst into the stormy world of "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L'Engle. The chapter sets the stage with Meg Murray, a young girl grappling with self-doubt, a mysterious tramp, and the unsettling arrival of Mrs. Whatsit during a tempestuous night. As always, our hosts peel back the layers of the narrative, spotlighting Meg's struggles and the peculiar encounter with Mrs. Whatsit. The question looms: What secrets does this visitor hold, and how does this relate to the infamous Tesseract? Dan and Jennifer's exploration is as insightful as it is amusing, leaving listeners eager for more.Hey, Scary Book People (that's what we call our AWESOME listeners)! Ever felt like you were on the brink of discovering something world-changing? Meg Murray’s life takes an unexpected turn with a late-night visit from Mrs. Whatsit. What do you think about the mysterious tesseract mention? Ever encountered a moment in life that felt like a 'wrinkle in time'? Share your thoughts and experiences with us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast. Let's unravel the mysteries of time together!Communicate With Us: Got thoughts, theories, or just want to share your favorite moment from this episode? We're all ears! Follow and DM us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast or shoot us an email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Let's get chatting!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, which, as of our latest information, is Farrar, Straus, and Giroux (FSG), a division of Macmillan Publishers. We encourage supporting the original author by obtaining copies of their works through legitimate channels. Please note that our podcast is not officially connected with Madeleine L'Engle, her estate, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, Macmillan Publishers, or any entities associated with the publication 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 Mar 14, 2024
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
Episode Summary:In our season finale, Dan and Jennifer delve into the last chapter of "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain, exploring the complex themes of freedom, morality, and identity that culminate in this closing segment. They unpack the revelations about Jim's freedom, Huck's future, and the moral quandaries presented by Tom Sawyer's elaborate schemes. The discussion highlights how Twain's work mirrors contemporary issues, including the ongoing struggles with racism and the importance of recognizing humanity in everyone. This episode not only wraps up Huck and Jim's journey but also sets the stage for our next season, promising more thought-provoking discussions on banned literature. Join us as we bid farewell to the Mississippi River and gear up for a leap through time and space with Madeleine L'Engle's "A Wrinkle in Time."Season five premieres Tuesday, March 26! We’re taking next week off to prepare for the new book! Hey Scary Book People (that's what we call our AWESOME listeners)!Got thoughts on Huck's wild ride or the tangle of freedom and responsibility Twain lays out? How about that finale - did it leave you hanging, or did it wrap things up just right for you? Slide into our DMs @bannedcamp_podcast or drop a comment below the latest episode post. Let's chat about endings, beginnings, and everything in-between. No spoilers for next season, though - we're jumping into "A Wrinkle in Time" and can't wait to hear your predictions!Communicate With Us:Got something more to say, or maybe a burning question? We're all ears and screen eyes! Follow and message us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast or shoot us an email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. We love hearing from our scary book people, whether it's a deep dive into Huck Finn's psyche or your thoughts on what's coming next season.Everyone, follow @rachelwithreads on TikTok. We recorded a segment where we talked about her in this episode, but the recording was all garbled, and we couldn't salvage it. But watch her take on Florida's book banners at a school board meeting. This is how it's done! GO RACHEL!Disclaimer:Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' by Mark Twain aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature censorship and societal themes. The original work 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' 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 Mark Twain, his estate, or the publishers of 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.' 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 Mar 12, 2024
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Episode Summary:In this episode, Jen and Dan tackle Chapter 42 of "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn", where Huck's lies and Tom's elaborate plans come to a head. As the trio's escape plan unfolds, the episode explores themes of freedom, morality, and the absurd lengths to which Tom goes for the sake of adventure. Through lively discussion, Jen and Dan dissect the characters' motivations, particularly Tom's revelation about Jim's status, and its implications on their quest for freedom. This chapter's examination dives deep into the heart of Twain's message about society, friendship, and the price of freedom.Hey Scary Book People (that's what we call our AWESOME listeners)!Caught up in Huck and Jim's adventure? What's your take on Tom's elaborate escape plan? Was it all for thrill, or was there something more? Hit us up on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and let's dissect these chapters together. Your insights just might be the key to unlocking the mysteries of Twain's world!Communicate With Us:Got thoughts? We want to hear them! Follow and message us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast. Or, if you're more the email type, shoot us a message at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. We can't wait to dive into discussion with you!Featured Clips:Featured clips include a segment from "Highway Patrol" starring Broderick Crawford, produced by Ziv Television Productions and currently owned by United Artists Television under MGM Television. Rights and copyrights are the property of their respective owners, used here for entertainment and educational purposes under fair use guidelines. No copyright infringement intended.Comprehensive Analysis:For a deeper dive into Chapter 42, check out our blog at Banned Camp Blog. We've got a thorough analysis waiting for you, exploring all the twists and turns of Twain's narrative.Disclaimer:Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' by Mark Twain aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' 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 Mark Twain, his estate, or the publishers of 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.' 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 Mar 07, 2024
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Episode Summary:In the latest dive into "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," Dan and Jennifer navigate the complexities of Chapter 41, where Huck, Jim, and Tom's adventure spirals into an intense blend of suspense and moral dilemmas. As the plot thickens with Tom's injury and the trio's desperate attempts to maintain their freedom, Huck's interaction with Aunt Sally showcases a profound emotional depth, revealing the personal cost of their escapades. The duo's analysis reveals the humor in Twain's narrative, particularly through Huck's elaborate lies and the townsfolk's absurd speculations. This episode peels back the layers of deception, loyalty, and the quest for liberty, all while keeping the listeners on the edge of their seats.Hey Scary Book People (that's what we call our AWESOME listeners)! We want to hear from you:How would you navigate the moral quandaries Huck faces? And let's not forget about Aunt Sally—ever had to tell a white lie that snowballed out of control? Share your tales and thoughts on our Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast. Let's get the conversation rolling!Communicate With Us:Don't be strangers! We love hearing from you. Follow us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast and shoot us a message or drop us an email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. We can't wait to chat with you!Featured Clips:This episode's insights are paired with a riveting segment from the Meidas Touch Network episode titled "#DiaperDon: Former Apprentice Staffer Noel Casler Reveals All," featuring the outspoken Noel Casler. Dive into the episode here on YouTube and follow Noel on Twitter for more explosive takes.Check out our in-depth chapter analysis on our blog:Craving more on Chapter 41? We've got you covered! Head over to our blog for a comprehensive breakdown and some thought-provoking insights into the twists and turns of Huck's journey.Disclaimer:Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' by Mark Twain aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' 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 Mark Twain, his estate, or the publishers of 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.' 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 Mar 05, 2024
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
This episode takes us through the twists and turns of Mark Twain's world, where Huck, Jim, and Tom's escape plan unfolds with more hiccups than a soda-drinking contest. Picture this: a plan so slippery that even the butter wants in on the action, melting down Huck's neck in the heat of the moment. The chapter gives us a mix of suspense and slapstick, with a gunshot wound to Tom that's as surprising as finding out your grandma's into heavy metal. It's a rollercoaster ride of emotions, plans gone awry, and the ultimate test of friendship and bravery. Could this chapter be the reason the book faced the ban hammer? Let's dive into the chaos and find out.Hey Scary Book People (that's what we call our AWESOME listeners)!Ever had a "brilliant" plan turn into a comedy of errors? Share your story with us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast. Whether it's a cooking fiasco or an escape from the mundane, we're all ears (and laughs).Communicate With Us:We're just a DM away from sharing laughs, thoughts, or your favorite moments from banned books. Follow us on Instagram @bannedcamp_podcast or send us an email at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Let's make history together, one banned book at a time. Follow us on InstagramFeatured Clips:This episode features a clip from the 9News YouTube channel. Watch the full clip here.Banworthy to Bingeworthy:Dive into "The 'Fine' Dining Podcast" with Michael Ornelas, where the quest for the most okay-ish chain restaurant meal is on. It's an adventure where the biggest risk is the calories. Check it out on your favorite podcast platform.Further Exploration:Craving more on the buttery escape of Huck, Jim, and Tom? Our blog has got you covered with a deeper look into the chapter's antics and its place in the grand scheme of "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." Get the full scoop here.Disclaimer:Banned Camp brings you engaging discussions and readings of banned books all within the bounds of fair use guidelines. Our exploration of 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' by Mark Twain aims to ignite critical thinking and inspire conversations about literature, censorship, and societal themes. The original work 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' 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 Mark Twain, his estate, or the publishers of 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.' 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.
