Banned Camp: Banned Books, Comedy, and Free Speech vs. Censorship

Love banned books? Hate censorship? Same.

Banned Camp is a comedy podcast where we read banned books out loud, cover-to-cover, and try to figure out why they were banned in the first place. If you've never read them, now's your chance to hear them for the first time with us. If you have, well, you already know what's coming and this will be your chance to laugh at us as we bumble our way through and get horrified over and over again.

11 seasons in, we've gotten pretty good at figuring out what these books are actually about and why the people pushing book banning and censorship don't want you to read them.

This season we're reading The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood. Every episode we read the next chapter out loud, talk about what we found, and try to figure out why this book scares the book banners so much. It probably has something to do with the political shit show we're all currently living through.

You know what's really insane right now? There are people in this country who own a lot of red hats but not a lot of library cards, and somehow those people ended up in charge of deciding what your kids can read.

Moms for Liberty, pudding lover Ron DeSantis, and basically every politician who thinks they know better than you have been pushing book banning and censorship for years. We're pretty sure none of them have actually read the books, because if they did they'd have a hard time explaining why Captain Underpants and Charlotte's Web are a threat to your kids' freedom.

So we read them ourselves to find out what's really in them.

We also have a fact-checking robot so we don't accidentally spread misinformation. Or what some people call "alternative facts."

Our listeners are called The Scary Book People. You'll fit right in.

New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday. You can start anywhere, Robot catches you up fast.

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 Saenz, Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut, Kindred by Octavia E. Butler, Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, and The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger.

Listen on:

Episodes

Jul 29, 2024

27 min

In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan explore Chapter 7 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. From discussing Ari's crutch-filled return to school to the hilarity of 80s nostalgia and hospital morphine, the episode is packed with humor and poignant insights. Jennifer and Dan share personal anecdotes, including Dan's embarrassing attempts to emulate the Dukes of Hazzard and Jennifer's germaphobia.Things To Listen For:Ari's dream about running over Dante and its implications.The significance of Ari's truck as his place of prayer and solitude.Jennifer and Dan's humorous discussion about smoking and its portrayal in the book.Personal stories from the hosts, including Dan's teenage car antics.Speculations on Ari's and Dante's budding relationships and inner conflicts.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: Enjoying Banned Camp? Rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us reach more scary book people like you!Featured Clips: Featured clips include a segment from 'Alexander Hamilton' by Lin-Manuel Miranda and an instrumental version of 'We Don't Talk About Bruno'. 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.Banworthy to Bingeworthy: Just One Good ThingCheck out our new podcast, "Just One Good Thing," a limited series running for 100 episodes leading up to the 2024 election. Each daily episode highlights one positive action Democrats have taken to improve the country, countering the common challenge, "Name one good thing Democrats have done." Jennifer and Dan remind you of progressive accomplishments while contrasting them with the damage caused by their opponents. Start your day with a dose of positivity and stay informed as we count down to the election. Listen to "Just One Good Thing" on Apple Podcasts and other major platforms.Call to Action: Find them on your favorite podcast app and get inspired by daily reminders of progress and positivity.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: Ari's dream, Aristotle and Dante, teenage struggles, 80s nostalgia, smoking in literature, personal anecdotes, germaphobia, teenage car antics.

Jul 24, 2024

18 min

In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapter 4 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari navigates the first day of school with the usual teenage angst, complicated friendships, and unexpected encounters. The hosts share their humorous insights into Ari's interactions with his classmates, the awkwardness of school icebreakers, and the emotional complexity of his relationship with Dante. Things To Listen For:Ari's sarcastic responses to Gina Navarro's persistent questions.The significance of Ari's accident and how he uses it to deflect attention.The introduction of Ileana and her potential impact on Ari and Dante's relationship.Dan is too cheap to pay for Paramount Plus.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: Love what you're hearing? Show your support by rating, reviewing, and following us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and keeps the fight against book banning alive!Disclaimer: This podcast, Banned Camp, features readings and discussions of banned books for criticism, commentary, education, and entertainment following 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 fully appreciate them in their original context.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 podcast monetization is separate and not derived directly from the copyrighted material discussed. We intend to engage in, promote, and support critical and educational discourse around these works within the framework of fair use.Topics Covered: Ari, Dante, high school, teenage angst, friendship, identity, accident, icebreakers, 1980s, family dynamics, humor, literature, censorship, banned books.

Jul 22, 2024

28 min

In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapters 6 through 11 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari navigates through a tumultuous emotional landscape as he grapples with his injuries, deepens his bond with Dante, and confronts his feelings and identity. From sponge baths and sketchbooks to the poignant longing for connection, this episode captures the highs and lows of teenage life and the complexity of human relationships. Listen as Jennifer and Dan unpack Ari's introspections with their unique blend of live commentary while Robot keeps them in check with his fact-checking prowess.Things To Listen For:Ari's vulnerable moments and emotional breakdownsThe significance of Ari's relationship with his parentsThe complex dynamics between Ari and DanteInsightful commentary on masculinity and identityJennifer and Dan mock Ari's wheelchairRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: Enjoying Banned Camp? Rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue our fight against book bans.Featured Clips: Featured clips include a segment from the song "Low Rider" by War, released in 1975. 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 by 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 podcast monetization 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: Ari's emotional journey, parental relationships, teenage angst, masculinity and identity, Ari and Dante's friendship, summer reflections, introspection, vulnerability, humor in adversity, literary analysis

Jul 17, 2024

22 min

Jennifer and Dan read chapters 3 to 5 of part three of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, where Ari's hospital recovery is fraught with emotional and physical challenges. For someone who is a total lightweight and who has never taken an illicit drug in his life, Dan really does seem like he is hooked on hospital morphine. Jennifer's witty takes on Ari's stubbornness add a lighthearted touch to the emotional narrative.Things To Listen For:Ari's complex feelings towards Dante and his recoveryThe role of rules in Ari's coping mechanismJennifer and Dan's humorous insights on hospital stays and morphineThe emotional and physical impact of Ari's accident on his relationshipsThe hosts' banter about accepting gratitude and loveRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: Enjoying Banned Camp? Please rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring more banned book adventures to your ears! Rate and Review on Apple PodcastsDisclaimer: This podcast, Banned Camp, features readings and discussions of banned books for 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 fully appreciate them in their original context.This podcast is not endorsed by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, his estate, or the publishers of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe." Podcasting monetization is separate and not derived directly from the copyrighted material discussed. We intend to engage in, promote, and support critical and educational discourse around these works within the fair use framework.Topics Covered: hospital recovery, anger, gratitude, solitude, connection, counseling resistance, family dynamics, morphine, hospital experience, Ari and Dante relationship, banned books

Jul 15, 2024

23 min

In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Part 3, Chapter 2 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Join them as they explore Ari’s funny and heartfelt hospital stay, his strange green-eyed doctor, and the growing bond between Ari and Dante. Jennifer and Dan share their hospital stories, including Dan’s impatience with getting discharged and their take on Ari’s swearing. Things To Listen For:Ari’s description of his alien-like doctor with deep green eyes.The funny take on hospital experiences and the wish to sleep through recovery.Ari’s frustration with his injuries and his funny talks with hospital staff.A look into Ari’s feelings about his heroic act and his relationship with Dante.The touching moment with Dante’s parents and their thanks to Ari.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: If you enjoy our podcast, please take a moment to rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us reach more listeners and keep fighting book bans.Disclaimer: This podcast, Banned Camp, features readings and talks about banned books for criticism, commentary, education, and fun in accordance with fair use guidelines. The material from the book "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz is shared under these principles to spark thought and talk about books, censorship, and societal issues. We do not claim ownership over the original work; all copyrights remain with the original copyright holder. We strongly encourage listeners to buy copies of the discussed works to enjoy them fully in their original form.Our intent is to engage in, promote, and support critical and educational talk around these works within the fair use framework, providing our listeners with valuable insights and perspectives.Topics Covered: hospital stay, humor, introspection, heroism, friendship, identity, gratitude, hospital staff, medical billing.

Jul 10, 2024

21 min

In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Part 3, Chapter 1 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. The chapter begins with Ari waking up in a hospital after a dramatic car accident. As he navigates the pain and confusion of his injuries, the tension and humor unfold in typical Banned Camp style. From Ari's morphine-induced musings to the touching moments with his parents and Dante, this episode is filled with poignant and hilarious commentary. Jennifer and Dan also compare the chapter's events to a classic "General Hospital" episode, complete with dramatic flair and over-the-top emotions.Things To Listen For:Ari’s reaction to waking up in a hospitalThe mystery of how Dante avoided the car accidentHilarious morphine moments and Ari's dialogue with his parentsInsights into Ari and Dante's developing relationshipComparisons to "General Hospital" and the theme music from 1979Jennifer and Dan's personal anecdotes about hospital experiencesRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:Love what you hear? Help us fight censorship with humor by rating, reviewing, and following us on Apple Podcasts. Your support means the world to us and helps other scary book people find the show!Featured Clips:Featured clip the "General Hospital" theme song, 1979. 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:hospital drama, morphine, car accident, Ari and Dante, banned books, censorship, humor, friendship, General Hospital, coming-of-age, LGBTQ+ themes

Jul 8, 2024

21 min

In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapter 12 of Part two  of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. As Ari and Dante navigate their teenage years, the episode explores themes of friendship, identity, and the struggles of growing up. Highlights include a heartfelt walk in the rain and a sudden, dramatic event that leaves listeners on the edge of their seats. Alongside the book discussion, Jennifer and Dan share their thoughts on a recent viral video involving a woman accosting drag performers in a Waikiki hotel.Things To Listen For:Ari and Dante’s poignant walk in the rain.The unexpected and dramatic twist at the end of the chapter.Jennifer and Dan's take on the viral video incident in Waikiki.Humorous banter about childhood dress-up games and hotel lobby controversies.Reflections on the absurdity of book bans and societal prejudices.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: Enjoying the show? Don’t forget to rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue our fight against censorship with a dose of comedy.Featured Clips: Featured clips include a segment from Hawaii News Now, where Eddie Dowd reports on the viral video of a woman accosting drag performers at a Waikiki hotel. Full story available here.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: Ari and Dante, teenage friendship, identity, growing up, viral video, drag performers, Waikiki hotel incident, book bans, societal prejudices, humor, censorship, Hawaii News Now, Eddie Dowd.

Jul 3, 2024

23 min

Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into chapters 10 and 11 of part 2 in "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari reflects on his relationship with his mother, the weight of family expectations, and the hidden history of his brother. As the duo delves into the complexities of growing up, they explore the humorous and poignant moments of Ari's journey. Dan shares his own story of being an "unplanned miracle," while Jennifer speculates on Ari's cultural pressures. The episode wraps up with a discussion about Ari's budding friendship with Dante and the secrets that still linger in his family.Things To Listen For:Ari’s introspective thoughts on his mother’s dual roles.The burden of being the only son in a Mexican family.Jennifer and Dan’s take on Ari’s puberty and growing pains.The significance of Ari’s brother’s absence from family photos.Dan predicts the mystery behind Ari’s brother’s imprisonment.Ari’s candid journal entries about his feelings of isolation and confusion.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: If you enjoy our show, please take a moment to rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us reach more listeners and keep fighting the good fight against censorship!Featured Clips: Featured clips include the "Time to Change" clip from a segment  'The Brady Bunch'. 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: Family expectations, growing up, puberty, sibling dynamics, cultural pressures, introspection, friendship, secrets, prison, Mexican American identity.

Jul 1, 2024

18 min

Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapters 8 and 9 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. The discussion centers around Ari’s feverish dreams, poignant family moments, and his complex relationship with his parents. From Ari’s introspective conversations with Dante to heartwarming interactions with his mother, this episode explores the theme of understanding and connecting with one’s parents. Along the way, Jennifer and Dan provide their usual blend of humor and insightful commentary, making for an engaging and thought-provoking episode.Things To Listen For:Ari’s fever dreams and their significance.Dante’s supportive and inquisitive nature.The intricate dynamics of Ari’s family relationships.Insights into Ari’s mother’s past and her perseverance.The evolving understanding between Ari and his mother.Banworthy to Bingeworthy: Looking for a nostalgia trip that’s totally rad? Check out Dissecting the 80s with hosts Tripp and Andrew Lano! Dive into their hilarious and insightful takes on iconic 80s movies, from "Ghostbusters" to "The Goonies." With over 250 episodes, there’s plenty to explore, including content on classics from more than 25 years ago. Join their Patreon for even more 80s goodness. Find them on your favorite podcast app or visit dissectingtheeighties.com. Don’t miss out—rewind with them every other week!Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: Enjoying the journey through banned books with Jennifer and Dan? Show your support by rating, reviewing, and following us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps us reach more "scary book people" and continue our mission against book censorship!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: Ari's fever dreams, family ties, introspective moments, Dante's support, motherly wisdom, family dynamics, parental understanding, teenage conversations, emotional distances, prison, sibling relationships.

Jun 26, 2024

17 min

Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan read chapters 5 though 7 of Part 2 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. As Ari battles a persistent fever, his dreams become a poignant exploration of family ties and emotional distances. From surreal dreams featuring his brother Bernardo to introspective moments with Dante, these chapters explore the complex landscapes of Ari's mind. Listen in as Jennifer and Dan dissect the symbolism of Ari's dreams, his struggle with identity, and the deepening bond between Ari and Dante.Things To Listen For:Ari's fever dream about his brother and the symbolic river.The emotional weight of Ari's interactions with his father and brother in his dream.Ari's feelings of isolation and introspection about his relationships with family and friends.The significance of Ari's dream involving Dante and the implications for their relationship.Discussions on the themes of identity, belonging, and emotional pain.Banworthy to Bingeworthy: Check out "Dissecting the 80s," hosted by Tripp and Andrew Lano. Dive into the iconic movies and pop culture of the 1980s with insightful and humorous commentary. Whether you're nostalgic for the past or discovering these gems for the first time, this podcast has something for every 80s fan. Find them on your favorite podcast app.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue uncovering the stories behind banned books.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: fever dreams, family ties, emotional distance, Ari's introspection, Dante's friendship, identity struggle, belonging, surreal symbolism, banned books, censorship, literary analysis.

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