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

Aug 8, 2023

26 min

Jen and Dan read the final section of part 2 of Fahrenheit 451.Montag returns to the firehouse, earpiece in tow, turning an ordinary poker game into an undercover mission. Meanwhile, as Beatty channels his inner bard, Jen gets lost in translation, forcing Dan to put his drama school audition chops to good use.Follow and messages us on Facebook, Instagram  @bannedcamp_podcast, or email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. A portion of 'The Simpsons Theme' composed by Danny Elfman and produced by Gracie Films and 20th Century Fox Television, is used under fair use for educational and entertainment purposes. 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 "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury 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 Ray Bradbury, his estate, or the publishers of "Fahrenheit 451." 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.

Aug 3, 2023

32 min

Jen and Dan read the next section of part 2 of Fahrenheit 451.Montag hijacks Mildred's party with illicit poetry, giving 'show and tell' a new twist, while Jennifer grapples with the 50s' skewed gender dynamics, where women merely danced to men's tunes.Follow and messages us on Facebook, Instagram  @bannedcamp_podcast, or email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Excerpt from 'Nasty' by Janet Jackson, produced by A&M Records and used under fair use for educational and entertainment purposes. 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 "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury 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 Ray Bradbury, his estate, or the publishers of "Fahrenheit 451." 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.

Aug 1, 2023

30 min

Jen and Dan read the next section of part 2 of Fahrenheit 451.Montag's on a mission to save books with torn Bibles and secret earpieces. Meanwhile, Dan and Jen debate whether Jesus is more Kramer or pitchman.Bingeworthy podcast alertIf you love engaging stories, check out Good People, Cool Things. Hosted by the multi-talented Joey Held, each episode dives into fascinating conversations with creators about their life journeys, interspersed with pro tips and even a corny joke or two. Find them at goodpeoplecoolthings.com or wherever you get your podcasts.Follow and messages us on Facebook, Instagram  @bannedcamp_podcast, or email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Excerpts from 'Seinfeld' theme (1989-1998), owned by Castle Rock Entertainment. Used for educational and entertainment purposes under fair use. 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 "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury 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 Ray Bradbury, his estate, or the publishers of "Fahrenheit 451." 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.

Jul 27, 2023

24 min

Jen and Dan read the first section of part 2 of Fahrenheit 451.Join Montag's subway showdown with a toothpaste jingle as he tries to memorize the Bible, and tag along with Jen, who's on a mission to make 'tremble' tremble.Follow and messages us on Facebook, Instagram  @bannedcamp_podcast, or email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Excerpts from "Looney Tunes | Be Vewy Quiet, I'm Hunting Wabbits! | Classic Cartoon," produced by Warner Bros., and "The Count's Theme" from Sesame Street, produced by Children's Television Workshop, used under fair use for educational and entertainment purposes. 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 "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury 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 Ray Bradbury, his estate, or the publishers of "Fahrenheit 451." 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.

Jul 25, 2023

17 min

Jen and Dan read the final section of part 1 of Fahrenheit 451.Join us as we unearth Montag's ventilator vault of books, contemplate his fireman resignation, and ask the burning question: how many bunnies does it take to fill Mildred's need for speed?Bingeworthy podcast alertCheck out "Hessy & Maven"! Join Raven and Justin, two hilarious siblings, as they share personal stories, discuss random topics, and bring the laughs. If you enjoy "Banned Camp," you'll love the humor and banter on "Hessy & Maven." Search for them wherever you find podcasts, and prepare for non-stop laughter!Follow and messages us on Facebook, Instagram  @bannedcamp_podcast, or email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Excerpts from "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" produced by Art Linson and Irving Azoff, directed by Amy Heckerling, and "Take a Chance on Me" performed by ABBA, written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, used under fair use for educational and entertainment purposes. 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 "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury 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 Ray Bradbury, his estate, or the publishers of "Fahrenheit 451." 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.

Jul 20, 2023

45 min

Trigger Warning:In this episode, we touch on a sensitive topic, specifically suicide. If you prefer to skip that part, feel free to fast forward between 33:58 and 34:34.  Be well.Jem and Dan read section 5 of part 1 of Fahrenheit 451.Navigate the curious path of fireman book burners, where Bradbury's theremin fascination gives Jen the giggles, and behold Dan's stress-induced exorcist impression.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 "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury is shared under these principles, with the intent of provoking thought and discussion about literature, censorship, and societal issues. We do not claim 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 Ray Bradbury, his estate, or the publishers of "Fahrenheit 451." 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.

Jul 18, 2023

35 min

Jen and Dan read section 5 of part 1 of Fahrenheit 451.Discover how a dystopian world of kerosene and TV screens intertwines with Dan's 'Flex-Seal' theory in an episode of lost love and hidden books.Bingeworthy podcast alertCheck out "Hessy & Maven"! Join Raven and Justin, two hilarious siblings, as they share personal stories, discuss random topics, and bring the laughs. If you enjoy "Banned Camp," you'll love the humor and banter on "Hessy & Maven." Search for them wherever you find podcasts, and prepare for non-stop laughter!Follow and messages us on Facebook, Instagram  @bannedcamp_podcast, or email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. 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 "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury 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 Ray Bradbury, his estate, or the publishers of "Fahrenheit 451." 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.

Jul 13, 2023

20 min

Jen and Dan read section 4 of part 1 of Fahrenheit 451.Join Montag as he questions his role amid firemen's bizarre history, leading Jen to wonder if Seinfeld's wit could thrive in this dystopian society.Follow and messages us on Facebook, Instagram  @bannedcamp_podcast, or email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Excerpts from 'Seinfeld' theme (1989-1998), owned by Castle Rock Entertainment, and 'The Count's Theme' from 'Sesame Street' (1969-present), owned by Sesame Workshop. Used for educational and entertainment purposes under fair use. 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 "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury 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 Ray Bradbury, his estate, or the publishers of "Fahrenheit 451." 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.

Jul 11, 2023

24 min

Jen and Dan read section 3 of part 1 of Fahrenheit 451.Join us as Montag navigates a reality of firemen and terminator hounds, contrasted sharply by Jen's less perilous but equally passionate distaste for the word 'tremble.'Bingeworthy podcast alertCheck out "Hessy & Maven"! Join Raven and Justin, two hilarious siblings, as they share personal stories, discuss random topics, and bring the laughs. If you enjoy "Banned Camp," you'll love the humor and banter on "Hessy & Maven." Search for them wherever you find podcasts, and prepare for non-stop laughter!Follow and messages us on Facebook, Instagram  @bannedcamp_podcast, or email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. 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 "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury 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 Ray Bradbury, his estate, or the publishers of "Fahrenheit 451." 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.

Jul 6, 2023

27 min

Jen and Dan read section 2 of part 1 of Fahrenheit 451.The absurdity of Montag's life, where 'Seashells' and pills replace real comfort, leaves Jen puzzled over Bradbury's preoccupation with plentiful counting.Follow and messages us on Facebook, Instagram  @bannedcamp_podcast, or email us at pod@bannedcamppodcast.com. Excerpts from 'The Muppet Show Theme', (1976-1981), owned by The Walt Disney Company, and 'The Count's Theme Song' from 'Sesame Street' (1969-present), owned by Sesame Workshop. Used for educational and entertainment purposes under fair use. 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 "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury 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 Ray Bradbury, his estate, or the publishers of "Fahrenheit 451." 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.

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