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

Apr 29, 2024

41 min

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.

Apr 24, 2024

28 min

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.

Apr 22, 2024

35 min

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.

Apr 17, 2024

28 min

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.

Apr 15, 2024

29 min

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.

Apr 10, 2024

19 min

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!

Apr 8, 2024

32 min

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.

Apr 3, 2024

39 min

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.

Apr 1, 2024

33 min

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.

Mar 27, 2024

26 min

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.

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