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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.

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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.