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

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In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan tackle the heavy-hitting Chapters 7-12 of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. As Ari wrestles with family secrets, his mother opens up about his brother’s crime, and emotions run high. From discussions of tough love to the occasional joke about punching Nazis, this episode has it all!

Things To Listen For:

• Ari’s confrontation with his mother about his brother’s past and the burden of family secrets.
• Jennifer’s take on how easy (or not) it is to accidentally kill someone in a fight.
• Humorous banter about the 1980s, Mexican kids’ access to the law, and parenting guilt.
• A quick lesson on Spanish with Robot and the Arrested Development clip on the meaning of “Hermano.”

Banworthy to Bingeworthy:
Check out Velshi Banned Book Club, where Ali Velshi dives deep with authors of banned books to explore the powerful themes and controversies surrounding their works. Listen on Apple Podcasts.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
If you enjoy listening to Banned Camp, please take a moment to rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help spread the word about our mission to fight censorship, one banned book at a time!

Featured Clips:
This episode features a clip from the Arrested Development TV series. All rights to the clip belong to the creators of Arrested Development and are used here for commentary under fair use guidelines.

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 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 secrets, emotional trauma, Mexican kids in the 80s, Ari's brother, Dante’s recovery, fighting Nazis, Arrested Development Hermano clip, therapy, masculinity, friendship, violence

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In this intense episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapters 4-6 of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. 

Ari’s rage boils over as he confronts one of Dante’s attackers, taking justice into his own hands. Emotions run high as Ari struggles to make sense of his violent actions and their consequences. 

Things To Listen For:

• Ari's shocking confrontation with one of Dante’s attackers.
• Jennifer and Dan’s humorous debate on whether or not Ari’s actions were justified.
• Robot’s take on the correct pronunciation of “Julián.”
• Comparisons to past protagonists like Ponyboy from The Outsiders and Dill from To Kill a Mockingbird.
• A deep dive into Ari’s emotional conflict and his relationship with his family.

Banworthy to Bingeworthy:

• Velshi Banned Book Club: Dive into insightful conversations with authors of banned books as Ali Velshi explores the themes and controversies behind these powerful stories. Listen on Apple Podcasts.
• Nevermorphed: A hilarious journey through the Animorphs series as a millennial revisits the books that defined a generation. Listen on Apple Podcasts.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
Enjoying our deep dives into banned books? Please rate, review, and follow Banned Camp on Apple Podcasts to stay updated on our latest episodes. Your support helps us reach more scary book people like you!

Featured Clips:
A special thanks to How to Pronounce Julian (Spanish) by Julien Miquel on YouTube for helping us get the pronunciation of “Julián” just right. Check out the video 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 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 anger, confronting bullies, Dante’s attackers, violence and consequences, family dynamics, loyalty, identity, masculinity, emotional conflict.

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In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan delve into the turbulent emotions that follow Ari and his father’s intense trip to Tucson. As they return to El Paso amidst stormy weather, Ari wrestles with unsettling thoughts and a haunting dream that blurs the line between good and bad. Meanwhile, something unexpected and heartbreaking is about to unfold for Dante, testing the strength of his friendship with Ari and the boundaries of courage and identity. Join Jennifer and Dan as they explore these powerful chapters, filled with emotional highs and lows, while hinting at a looming revelation that will change everything. 

Things To Listen For:

• The contrasting calm and chaos as Ari and his father drive back home through a storm—symbolic of Ari’s inner turmoil.
• An unusual dream Ari has involving his father and brother, and what it reveals about his feelings.
• Ari’s struggle to understand his own emotions, from confusion to longing, and his complicated relationship with Dante.
• The tense and poignant conversation between Ari and Mr. Quintana—Dante’s father—foreshadowing a significant turning point.
• Jennifer and Dan’s take on how difficult topics like identity and self-acceptance play a crucial role in the book’s narrative.
• A lighthearted Robot segment that analyzes the prevalence of “babushkas” in literature and folklore.

Banworthy to Bingeworthy:
For a deeper dive into the rise of book bans and the authors behind banned books, check out the Velshi Banned Book Club podcast. This thought-provoking series tackles why certain books are targeted and what these stories reveal about societal issues. Find them on your favorite podcast app here.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
Enjoying Banned Camp? Help us fight censorship and keep the conversation going! Rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts to show your support. Every review helps us reach more listeners and continue exploring these important banned books.

Featured Clips:
Featured clips include a brief segment from the song “Babooshka” by Kate Bush, produced by Jon Kelly and distributed by EMI Records. 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:
Ari and Dante, friendship, family dynamics, identity, self-discovery, storm symbolism, emotional conflict, censorship, banned books, LGBTQ+ theme

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In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapters 14-18 of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari learns more about his family’s hidden secrets, including the revelation that his Aunt Ophelia lived with another woman, sparking a conversation about family acceptance and identity. As Ari navigates his grief, the desert storms reflect his internal emotional battles, and the mysteries of the universe feel ever more pressing. From talk of “lesbian lovers” to awkward family moments over fireworks and beer, this episode blends deep emotional moments with Jennifer and Dan's signature humor.

Things to Listen For:

• Ari discovers that his Aunt Ophelia lived with a woman, leading to speculation about her sexuality.
• Dan’s reaction to the phrase “lesbian lovers” and why it’s an awkward choice of words.
• How Ari’s parents finally open up about the family’s secrets, signaling a shift in their relationship.
• A comical breakdown of how small-minded relatives missed Ophelia’s funeral due to their judgmental attitudes.
• Jennifer and Dan’s thoughts on Ari’s first beer with his dad and their funny commentary on summer storms in the desert.

Banworthy to Bingeworthy:

• Velshi Banned Book Club: Join Ali Velshi as he interviews authors of banned books, exploring why these powerful stories face censorship. Listen on Apple Podcasts.
• Nevermorphed: A millennial's humorous journey to read the entire Animorphs series as an adult. Listen on Apple Podcasts.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
If you’re enjoying Banned Camp, please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us reach more scary book people and continue uncovering the reasons 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 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 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:
lesbian aunt, family secrets, summer storms, Aristotle’s emotions, Tucson house, desert rain, awkward family moments, book censorship, LGBTQ+ themes, grief, fireworks.

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In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan continue reading Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe with Chapter 11. Ari and his dad head out on a road trip to Tucson, sparking some quiet but meaningful conversations about family, loss, and old memories. Along the way, there’s coffee, reflections on Ari’s aunt, and a little help from Dante’s family as they look after Ari’s dog, Legs. Join us as Ari grapples with his complicated family history, all while Dan and Jennifer share their thoughts on road trips, family dynamics, and some unexpected moments of humor.

Things To Listen For:

• Ari and his dad’s strained yet revealing conversation during their drive to Tucson.
• Dante’s reaction to waking up early to dog-sit Legs and how dogs always seem to win people over.
• The mystery surrounding Ari’s Aunt Ophelia and why she distanced herself from the family.
• Musings on menudo, truck-stealing jokes, and memories of long summer stays with distant relatives.

Banworthy to Bingeworthy:

• Velshi Banned Book Club: Join Ali Velshi as he interviews authors of banned books, exploring why these powerful stories face censorship. Listen on Apple Podcasts.
• Nevermorphed: A millennial’s humorous journey to read the entire Animorphs series as an adult. Listen on Apple Podcasts.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to rate, review, and follow Banned Camp on Apple Podcasts. It helps fellow listeners discover the show! Click here to leave a review.

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 Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz is shared under these principles, to provoke 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 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:
Tucson, family relationships, road trips, Aristotle and Dante, Legs the dog, family dynamics, Aunt Ophelia, secrets, book banning, censorship.

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In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan read chapters 8 and 9 of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. The awkward blending of Ari and Dante’s social circles leaves Ari deeply uncomfortable as Dante’s friends start asking too many personal questions. Meanwhile, the duo dives into existential humor, as Jennifer and Dan muse over the peculiar quirks of Ari’s relationships and how his secrets are coming undone. Dan also reveals his fear of worlds colliding, especially when it comes to awkward social encounters. Oh, and there’s talk about running around naked in the rain, which feels pretty on brand for this book.

Things To Listen For:

• Ari's discomfort with his worlds colliding (and Dan's personal connection to that fear).
• Jennifer's bad memory resurfacing with a hilarious mix-up involving an abduction by a gang.
• Ari and Dante’s emotionally charged argument about revealing secrets to friends.
• The wild concept of Mexican edibles and Dan’s idea of chicken enchiladas infused with pot.
• Ari and Dante getting high and running naked in the rain (and what Dan and Jennifer think might happen next!).

Banworthy to Bingeworthy:
Check out Velshi Banned Book Club hosted by MSNBC’s Ali Velshi. In season two, Velshi talks to authors of banned books, uncovering the rising tide of censorship and how it impacts storytelling. This is the perfect companion for fans of Banned Camp who are passionate about fighting book bans. Listen now on your favorite podcast app. Velshi Banned Book Club.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider rating, reviewing, and following us on Apple Podcasts. Every review helps other scary book people find our show and join in on the fun!

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 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’s friendship, secrets and vulnerability, awkward social interactions, running naked in the rain, Mexican edibles, existential teenage crises, Jennifer’s memory lapses, book banning.

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In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan delve into Chapters 5-7 of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari and Dante’s friendship takes an intense turn as Dante suggests an experiment—kissing. Tensions build as Ari struggles to reconcile his feelings about the kiss, and Dante wrestles with his own emotions. Jennifer and Dan unpack the complex dynamics of friendship, identity, and the fear of unspoken truths. And, of course, there’s a side conversation where Jennifer and Dan reminisce about their ill-fated plan to start a food truck—something about frozen bananas and how things just don’t always go as planned.

Expect an emotional rollercoaster of reluctant acceptance, suppressed feelings, and awkward yet revealing conversations.

Things To Listen For:

• The “kiss experiment” and its aftermath.
• Ari’s struggle with expressing his emotions.
• Dante’s persistence and vulnerability in his friendship with Ari.
• Jennifer and Dan’s humorous take on the complexities of teenage identity.
• Insight into Ari’s relationship with his father and the deep silence between them.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
If you’re enjoying Banned Camp, don’t forget to rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps keep the fight against censorship alive!

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 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:
friendship, identity, teenage emotions, LGBTQ themes, kissing experiment, father-son relationship, suppression of feelings, silence, book censorship, book banning

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In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan explore Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe, diving into themes of friendship, love, and the innocence of dogs. The hosts contrast the purity of dogs with Trump’s bizarre hatred for them, featuring a hilarious breakdown of Trump’s constant “like a dog” expressions. Dan also shares his theory on Ari’s reluctance to embrace his own heroic identity. Plus, a discussion on Pete Buttigieg’s poignant remarks about progress for the LGBTQ+ community and marriage equality caps off the episode.

Things To Listen For:

• The Great Dog Debate: Trump vs. dogs – what's going on there?
• Ari's Identity Struggle: Why does Ari feel undeserving of recognition for saving Dante’s life?
• Pete Buttigieg Clip: Hear about progress in the LGBTQ+ community, with commentary on Buttigieg’s view of politics as "soul craft."

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
If you enjoy Banned Camp, please take a moment to rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help us reach more scary book people and continue the fight against censorship!

Featured Clips:
Featured clips include an instrumental version of "We Don’t Talk About Bruno" from Disney’s Encanto, a segment from Keith Olbermann’s The Resistance titled "WTF! Why is Trump Such a Weirdo About Dogs?" produced by GQ, and a clip from the 2024 DNC featuring Pete Buttigieg discussing LGBTQ+ progress.

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 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.

Topics Covered:
dogs, Trump’s dog hatred, friendship, Aristotle and Dante, Pete Buttigieg, marriage equality, LGBTQ+ rights, identity, banned books

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Hey Scary Book People, Dan here! Quick heads up: Jennifer came back from her summer trip feeling under the weather and needs some rest. This means we’re taking a short break and won’t be releasing new episodes on Thursday the 29th or the following Tuesday. But don't worry, we’ll be back in action on Thursday, September 5th, diving right back into 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe.' Thanks for your patience. See you soon!

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In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapter 1 of part 5 of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Summer has arrived, bringing both freedom and frustration for Ari as he navigates the complex emotions of youth. From his contemplation of summer's potential to a humorous exploration of his job at a fast food joint, the episode captures the essence of teenage angst. Jennifer and Dan's banter takes a nostalgic turn as they discuss the smell of fast food restaurants and the enduring appeal of Alice Cooper's "School's Out." Listen in as they explore themes of responsibility, identity, and the unique challenges of being on the verge of 17.

Things To Listen For:

• Ari's love-hate relationship with summer and what it represents.
• A deep dive into the concept of "ecotone" and its metaphorical significance in the chapter.
• Jennifer and Dan's  take on the perils of working in fast food.
• Nostalgic references to Alice Cooper's "School's Out" and its cultural impact.
• Insights into Ari's relationship with his mother and the pressures of growing up.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts: Enjoying the show? Don’t forget to rate, review, and follow us on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us continue our journey through the world of banned books!

Featured Clips: Featured clips include a few seconds from "School's Out" by Alice Cooper, produced by Bob Ezrin and distributed by Warner Bros. Records. 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: summer jobs, teenage angst, fast food industry, ecotone, responsibility, Alice Cooper, School's Out, parental relationships, intersectionality, coming of age.