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

<p>Love banned books? Hate censorship?<br />Same. You’re our kind of people.<br /><br />Banned Camp is a comedy podcast where we read banned books and try to figure out why they were banned in the first place.</p><p><br /></p><p>Each season, we tackle a new banned book, reading it chapter by chapter and asking: What made someone clutch their pearls and scream, "BAN IT!"? (Spoiler: It’s rarely what you’d expect.) One thing is clear—the people banning these books often haven’t read them. While we uncover some eyebrow-raising moments, nothing truly justifies censorship.</p><p><br /></p><p>Join us—and our listeners, "The Scary Book People"—as we explore the strange, hilarious, and sometimes baffling world of banned books.</p><p><br /></p><p>Past seasons have featured classics like <em>To Kill a Mockingbird</em> by Harper Lee, <em>Fahrenheit 451</em> by Ray Bradbury, <em>The Outsiders</em> by S.E. Hinton, <em>The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn</em> by Mark Twain, <em>A Wrinkle in Time</em> by Madeleine L’Engle, <em>Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe</em> by Benjamin Alire Sáenz,  <em>Slaughterhouse-Five</em> by Kurt Vonnegut, and 1984 by George Orwell.</p><p><br /></p><p>This season, we’re diving into <em>Brave New World</em> by Aldous Huxley. It's a dystopia built on pleasure, not fear. People are engineered, drugged, and distracted into obedience, and they’re taught to love the system that controls them. It’s funny, creepy, and disturbingly familiar. And like all great banned books, it makes you question the world you're living in.</p><p><br /></p><p>By reading these books, we ask big questions: Why are banned books important? What does “banned” mean? What does “challenged” mean? How do book bans affect students? Are book bans constitutional?</p><p><br /></p><p>Come hang out with us and have some laughs while we dig into the drama behind banned books—you might even learn something cool along the way!</p>

Banned Camp & Burn This Book- Bonus Episode

In this fun crossover episode, Banned Camp and Burn This Book podcasts team up to celebrate National Banned Books Week, shining a spotlight on Rosemary Wells' often-challenged children's book, "Yoko." With lively discussions led by hosts Jennifer Davis, Dan Schulz, Nicolle Okoren, and Eden Wen and a rare statement from Rosemary Wells, this episode explores the realm of banned literature and the cultural narratives they hold. Tune in for a rich dialogue on the freedom of expression and the im...

10-02
42:47

Halloween: Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark with Derek Hayes and David Flora!

Welcome to a special Halloween episode of Banned Camp, 'Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark Special,' featuring the paranormal's Derek Hayes and David Flora! In this spine-tingling installment, we are joined by Derek and David, known for their work in the world of high strangeness and the unexplained. Together, we'll explore the chilling tales and mysteries that lie within the pages of 'Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark.' Prepare to be thrilled as we dive into the world of the paranorma...

10-31
40:51

Banned Camp Programming Update

Dan shares a quick update on what's coming next for Banned Camp. Next week kicks off with a crossover episode featuring Allison and Joe from Queer Cinema Catch Up, where they’ll compare the book and movie versions of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. And don’t miss out on the Halloween Spooktacular on Thursday, where Dan will (attempt to) read from Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark. Plus, get ready for the premiere of Season 7 on election day, featuring Slaughterho...

10-24
02:53

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark | Banned Camp Halloween Special - Spooky Reads That Were Too Scary for Kids

In this special Halloween edition of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan, joined by Butch the dog along with his dog wife, Baby, (or Eddie Munster lookalike), bring you some creepy tales from "Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark." Dan takes over the reading duties this time, bringing to life short, spine-tingling stories that were once banned for being too scary for children. Listen as they discuss talking cats, giant felines, and mysterious transformations, all while diving into why these tale...

10-31
19:23

Between Hope and Heartbreak: Dan & Jennifer’s Election Thoughts

This unique episode of Banned Camp takes a break from the usual book commentary to reflect on the recent election and its emotional aftermath. Dan and Jennifer share their thoughts on the results, the direction of the country, and how censorship and suppression impact communities. We get candid about our worries for the future, recounting personal stories that underline the importance of staying connected, hopeful, and ready to push back against forces that threaten inclusivity and understand...

11-12
18:31

Happy Thanksgiving :)

Happy Thanksgiving, Scary Book People! 🦃 We hope you enjoy a relaxing Thanksgiving with good food and great company—even if you don’t all agree on politics. Let’s face it, this year feels like it might be extra challenging. So, take a deep breath, pass the mashed potatoes, and remember, pie is always bipartisan. Oh, and exciting news—we’re on Bluesky now! Come join us there! We’ll be back on Tuesday with more banned books fun. See you then!

11-28
02:20

Welcome to Banned Camp, the banned book podcast.

Love banned books? Hate censorship? Same. You’re our kind of people. Banned Camp is a comedy podcast where we read banned books and try to figure out why they were banned in the first place. Each season, we tackle a new banned book, reading it chapter by chapter and asking: What made someone clutch their pearls and scream, "BAN IT!"? (Spoiler: It’s rarely what you’d expect.) One thing is clear—the people banning these books often haven’t read them. While we uncover some eyebrow-raising moment...

03-06
00:58

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 1 - Slow Life and Sweaty Teacakes

Jen and Dan kick off this season by reading chapter 1 of To Kill a Mockingbird. Dan seems to identify with the slower pace of life in a sleepy town, but Jennifer can't stand that phrase 'Ladies bathed before noon after their three o'clock naps, and by nightfall were like soft teacakes with frostings of sweat and sweet talcum.' It's like they're being compared to baked goods covered in sweat and talcum powder. That's just not right -- or is it? Join the fight against book banning in y...

03-07
47:34

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 2 - Hot for Teacher, Cold for Clutter

Jen and Dan read chapter 2 of To Kill a Mockingbird. Jen is considering taking Atticus’ advice to use bartering to clean her house. Join the fight against book banning in your local community, and get your copy of The Book Ban Battle Plan, our grassroots guide, at https://www.bannedcamppodcast.com/battle. DISCLAIMER: This podcast, Banned Camp, features readings and discussions of banned books for the purpose of criticism, commentary, education, and entertainment in accordance with f...

03-10
28:34

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 3 - Hush Your Fussin'

Jen and Dan read chapter 3 of To Kill a Mockingbird. Hot take - Jennifer prefers empathy over bed slats. Join the fight against book banning in your local community, and get your copy of The Book Ban Battle Plan, our grassroots guide, at https://www.bannedcamppodcast.com/battle. 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 mat...

03-13
31:16

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 4 - Slow Curriculums and Ghostly Vapors

Jen and Dan read chapter 4 of To Kill a Mockingbird. Jem's panic over Scout's gum-chewing habits leads to a larger discussion on the dangers of knotholes and chimneys. Join the fight against book banning in your local community, and get your copy of The Book Ban Battle Plan, our grassroots guide, at https://www.bannedcamppodcast.com/battle. DISCLAIMER: This podcast, Banned Camp, features readings and discussions of banned books for the purpose of criticism, commentary, education, a...

03-21
35:40

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 5 - Hook, Line, & Foot-Washing Baptists

Jen and Dan read chapter 5 of To Kill a Mockingbird. When foot-washing Baptists frown upon Miss Maudie's heavenly flowers, we're reminded that some folks just can't handle the simple pleasures in life and would rather see them wilt in eternal damnation. Plus, Dan compares Jem to a place-kicking mule named Gus. Join the fight against book banning in your local community, and get your copy of The Book Ban Battle Plan, our grassroots guide, at https://www.bannedcamppodcast.com/battle. ...

03-28
36:18

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 6 - Radley Ruckus & Minty Mayhem

SPECIAL PROGRAMMING NOTE: Starting this week, Banned Camp will now be released twice per week. New episodes will drop Tuesdays and Thursdays at approximately 6 am EST/3 am PST. The feedback blows us away. THANK YOU! Jen and Dan read chapter 6 of To Kill a Mockingbird. In this nail-biting episode, the Scooby gang explores the dark recesses of the Radley Place, only to be met with a "thunderous roar" of a truly frightening sound. Meanwhile, Dan cooks up some minty mischief for t...

04-04
26:46

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 7 - Jem Walks Like an Egyptian

Jen and Dan read chapter 7 of To Kill a Mockingbird. As Jem and Scout uncover a series of enigmatic knothole presents that outshine Maycomb's mundane toothpick-whittling craze, Dan ponders whether Jem would walk like an Egyptian with "The Bangles," while Jen wishes for a more exhilarating town activity. If you're a progressive who wants to join the fight against book banning in your local community, get your copy of The Book Ban Battle Plan, our grassroots guide, at https://www.bannedcampp...

04-06
16:54

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 8 - Snowy Mischief & Maudie's Meltdown

Jen and Dan read chapter 8 of To Kill a Mockingbird. When a snowy surprise hits Maycomb, Jem, and Scout sculpt an icy doppelganger of their cranky neighbor, but the real chills come from a cryptic blanket-bestowing figure; meanwhile, Jen attempts to redefine "thrift" in a way that leaves Dan both puzzled and entertained. If you're a progressive who wants to join the fight against book banning in your local community, get your copy of The Book Ban Battle Plan, our grassroots guide, at https...

04-11
34:45

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 9 - Dove Disputes & Scout's Fight Club

Jen and Dan read chapter 9 of To Kill a Mockingbird. In this rip-roaring chapter, Scout fiercely defends Atticus against playground bullies and snarky relatives, proving that the only thing more tenacious than a wild dove outside Dan's studio window is a daughter's love for her father. Join the fight against book banning in your local community, and get your copy of The Book Ban Battle Plan, our grassroots guide, at https://www.bannedcamppodcast.com/battle. DISCLAIMER: This podcast, ...

04-13
47:07

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 10 - The Secret Life of Atticus Finch

Jen and Dan read chapter 10 of To Kill a Mockingbird. In an episode where Jem and Scout discover that their seemingly uncool dad is actually "Ol' One-Shot" Atticus, the deadest shot in Maycomb County, we learn that sometimes the most badass heroes are the ones who remain humble about their skills. Meanwhile, Dan and Jen get the "feels" so hard they're compelled to donate to an animal charity, and Dan regales us with his own wild pig encounter. Join the fight against book banning in your loc...

04-18
30:02

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 11 - Jem's War on Dubose's Bushes & Payback

Jen and Dan read chapter 11 of To Kill a Mockingbird. As Jem and Scout delve into the dark underbelly of Mrs. Dubose's bitter existence, we learn that even the nastiest neighbors have a story to tell. Dan and Jen shudder at her spine-chilling description. Your mind will be blown by the bombshell revelation about Mrs. Henry Lafayette Dubose. Join the fight against book banning in your local community, and get your copy of The Book Ban Battle Plan, our grassroots guide, at https://www.bannedc...

04-20
49:08

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 12 - Locked In: When Church Collections Get Intense and Aliens Invade

Jen and Dan read chapter 12 of To Kill a Mockingbird. In this chapter, where Jem and Scout delve into Calpurnia's hidden life and experience an unforgettable church service, Jen and Dan find themselves hilariously sidetracked by alien theories and Dan's nostalgic tales of short pants and hard shoes. Excerpts from "When They Ring Those Golden Bells" performed by The Acappella Company and found on their YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irz19WgkW3E) and "Haley's Hints" from PBS...

04-25
45:23

To Kill a Mockingbird | Chapter 13 - Auntzilla Alexandra's Iron Fist & Sweet Crispy Treats

Jen and Dan read chapter 13 of To Kill a Mockingbird. Scout, Jem, and Atticus grapple with Aunt Alexandra's relentless pursuit to impose her "feminine influence" on the family. Meanwhile, Jen and Dan uncover a heavenly new treat that'll make you exclaim, "Snap, Crackle, Pop, anyone?" Excerpts from "Trump Has Tiny Hands PAC," "Dueling Banjos from Deliverance," "Seinfeld," and "Snap Crackle Pop Song (Sophia Mitri Schloss version)" used under fair use for educational and entertainment purposes...

04-27
30:15

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