Booked and Banned: The Podcast

Booked and Banned

Welcome to Booked and Banned, the podcast about the power of controversial fiction. Every episode, we dive into a work of fiction that has been banned or challenged in schools, libraries, or communities around the world. We examine the reasons behind attempts to silence these stories and have a candid discussion about the literature itself. If you are a curious reader who wants to engage with books that challenge and provoke, hit Follow and join the resistance.

  1. 6d ago

    Episode 17: Diary of a Young Girl

    In this episode of Booked and Banned: The Podcast, we examine one of the most translated and widely read books in the world: Anne Frank’s diary. We specifically focus on the 1995 Definitive Edition, which restored a significant amount of material previously edited out by Anne’s father, and the more recent Graphic Adaptation by Ari Folman and David Polonsky. Joining the conversation is Karen Peirce, a writer and professional editor with a doctorate in rhetoric and composition. Karen previously worked with host Naomi at West Point in the Department of English and Philosophy. She brings a unique perspective on the text, having first read it as a 14-year-old student at a Quaker school—the same age Anne was when she authored the diary. The Evolution of the Text: The 1995 Definitive Edition restoredapproximately 30% of the material omitted from the original 1947 publication. This restored content provides a more unvarnished look at the interpersonal friction within the Secret Annex, Anne’s burgeoning sexuality, and her conscious literary efforts to edit her own work for future publication. The Visual Medium: We discuss the merits and limitationsof the graphic novel adaptation. While the illustrations help readers visualize the layout of the Annex, the format can sometimes simplify complex character dynamics, such as Anne’s nuanced feelings toward Peter van Daan and Mrs. vanDaan. A History of Challenges: The diary has faced censorship fordecades, beginning with Otto Frank’s "protective editing" of Anne’s criticisms and reflections on her body. Subsequent challenges in the U.S. have ranged from claims that the book is a "real downer" to modern efforts to label the restored or visual versions as "pornographic" or "age-inappropriate". The Complexity of Humanity: Our discussion touches on the healing power of nature as a theme in Anne’s writing and the importance of literature that makes us uncomfortable. Karen reflects on how the diary captures the juxtaposition of horrific historical events with the everyday experiences of love, beauty, and personal growth. Key Discussion PointsAuthorship and Ethics: The tension between Anne’s private"A" version of the diary and her edited "B" versionintended for public eyes. The Impulse to Protect: Why adults often feel the need toshield adolescents from clinical or realistic descriptions of anatomy and puberty. Contemporary Relevance: How the themes of the Holocaust and the suppression of discussion resonate within current global geopolitical tensions. Next Episode: A discussion of the complete Chroniclesof Narnia series by C.S. Lewis.

    41 min

  2. May 29

    Episode 16: A Prayer for Owen Meaney

    In this episode of Booked and Banned, host Naomi is joined by Lori, a retired Army civilian attorney and mental health counselor, to discuss John Irving’s 1989 classic, A Prayer for Owen Meany. The conversation touches on the novel's intricate structure, its political bite, and the complex relationship between its two central characters. The Draw of Irving’s Prose: Lori shares that despite the daunting 650-page length, it was Irving’s writing style and compelling plot that drew her in. Naomi and Lori agree that the narrative is remarkably engaging, even for those new to Irving’s work. Miraculous Foreshadowing and Predestination: The discussion explores how Irving uses recurring motifs to build the case forOwen’s belief in fate. Lori highlights three specific elements: Owen’s physical and spiritual "lightness," his discovery of his own death date on a prop tombstone, and the obsessive practice of "The Shot" in basketball. These elements suggest that Owen was consciously orchestrating his life to meet a specific, seen destiny. The Power of the All-Caps Voice: We discuss the stylistic choice of writing Owen’s dialogue in all capital letters. Lori notes that this effectively conveys Owen’s authority over both children and adults, while Naomi adds that it creates the sensation that Owen must "scream" to truly be heard, reinforcing his unique presence in the world. Contrast Between Eras - The 1960s vs. 1987: The conversation shifts to the dual timelines of the novel. Lori suggests that the1950s and 60s flashbacks feel more innocent and "simpler" compared to John’s cynical 1987 present. We discuss how the chaos of the Reagan administration and the Iran-Contra affair in the "present day" heightens John’s longing for the directed, purposeful life he shared with Owen. Symbolism and "Disarmament": Naomi and Lori unpack the recurring imagery of missing limbs—from the armadillo to thedressmaker’s dummy. Lori views these as symbols of the sacrifices required by faith and the helplessness of humans in the face of fate. Naomi connects these symbols to the political context of the 1980s, suggesting Irving was playing with the concepts of "arms" sales and nuclear disarmament. Faith vs. Religious Institution: A central theme of the discussion is the distinction between individual spirituality and organizedreligion. Lori posits that Owen is truly spiritual but not religious, while John is religious (following the motions of the church) but lacks Owen’s deep spiritual conviction. They reflect on how John’s primary faith is actually in Owen himself, rather than in a divine entity. Final Thoughts and Legacy: Lori reflects on the idea that true faith—whether in a person, a higher power, or a purpose—is a gift that leads to a more meaningful life. Be sure to join us next time for a discussion of Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank (The Definitive Edition).

    21 min

  3. May 19

    Episode 15: Little Black Sambo

    In this episode of Booked and Banned, we examine thecomplicated legacy of Helen Bannerman’s Little Black Sambo. First published in 1899, the book tells the story of a young boy in India who uses his wit to outsmart a group of tigers. While the original narrative depicts a heroic child, subsequent American editions often utilized exaggerated racial caricatures that transformed the text into a significant case study on how visual representation and cultural context can alter the reception of a story over time. Our guest is Marv Jones, a retired Navy Captain who nowworks in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Marv shares a deeply personal connection to the book, noting that it was one of the first stories he learned to read at age four or five. He describes how, as a young child, the negative racial connotations did not register; instead, he was captivated by the protagonist’s heroism and intelligence. The conversation explores several layers of the book'simpact: The Power of Agency: Marv explains that for him, the protagonist was a rare hero who resembled him in skin tone and age, and he identified with the boy's resourcefulness in outwitting his predators. A Shift in Perspective: Marv details how his view changed as he grew older and learned from his parents and eight siblings. He recounts a moving family story where his parents taught them that while the book was a tool for learning to read, he should not allow its caricatures to define his self-worth. Visual Evolution and Minstrelsy: We discuss the specific illustrations by Florence White Williams and the American minstrelsy archetypes—such as the "mammy" figure and "p********y" imagery—that became associated with the story. Cultural Footprint: The episode touches on the history of the book and modern attempts by illustrators like Jerry Pinkney and Christopher Bing to reclaim the narrative through culturally accurate depictions of India. Marv concludes the episode by reflecting on the progressmade over the last century. He views original and subsequent copies of the book as evidence of that progress and advocates for continued open dialogue and civil discourse about literature that makes us uncomfortable. Join us for our next episode where we will discuss A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving.

    30 min

  4. May 8

    Episode 14: Moloka'i

    In this episode of Booked and Banned, we look at AlanBrennert’s international bestseller, Moloka'i. The novel spans nearly a century of Hawaiian history, seen through the eyes of a young girl exiled to the Kalaupapa leprosy settlement. We explore how this story of resilience highlights the human spirit’s ability to flourish even under the shadow of state-mandated exile. Rosemarie is a technology leader who first brought this novel to our attention during a shared book club. Having lived in Hawai'i and visited the island of Moloka'i, Rosemarie brings a personal connection to the history and geography of the novel. We discuss why she felt this story was essential reading for the club and the deep emotional impact of exploring Hawaiian history through Rachel's eyes. A Love Letter to the Islands: We explore how the novel serves as a beautiful tribute to the landscape, culture, and spirit ofHawai'i, capturing the vibrancy of a kingdom in transition. The Double Tragedy: How the novel balances the physical toll of disease with the cultural and emotional toll of forced exile. The Missionary Paradox: A nuanced look at the role of the Catholic Church, including Father Damien and Mother Marianne Cope. We examine how missionary efforts provided essential infrastructure while simultaneously imposing Western strictures that often marginalized Hawaiian traditions. The Cycle of Separation: A discussion on the heartbreaking historical reality of children born in the settlement beingimmediately removed from their parents, and how Rachel experiences this trauma as both a child and a mother. Humanity Beyond the Medical: Why portraying the fullspectrum of Rachel’s life—her relationships, her grief, and her joy—is vital to acknowledging her as a complete human being. Redefining Family: How the residents of Kalaupapa built a vibrant community (ohana) when their biological families were stripped away, and what that teaches modern readers about isolation, altruism, and the necessity of being uncomfortable to truly learn. Join us for our next episode as we discuss our first children's book, the controversial and heavily debated Little Black Sambo by Helen Bannerman.

    30 min

  5. Apr 28

    Episode 13: Red Rising

    This installment of Booked and Banned examines PierceBrown’s science fiction debut, Red Rising. The narrative transports listeners to a terraformed Mars where society is organized by a rigid, color-coded caste system. We follow Darrow, a member of the lowly Red caste, who discovers that the life of sacrifice his people lead is based on a fabricationmaintained by the ruling elite. The discussion focuses on Darrow’s infiltration of the Institute and the difficult strategic choices he must make to understand and eventually subvert the architecture of power. Despite its popularity, Red Rising frequently appears on challenge lists in school districts and libraries. These attempts at removal typically center on the visceral descriptions of combat and the harsh realities of the student-led war at the Institute. There is also a recurring debate regarding the blurred lines between its marketing and its mature, complex themes. Beyond the physicality of the story, the novel’s narrative of questioning established history and dismantling social hierarchies often draws the attention of those who find its message of subversion concerning. Our conversation explores how the novel uses geneticallyengineered castes to mirror social stratification without relying on simple analogies. We analyze Darrow’s growth as he learns to speak the language of his oppressors, weighing the difference between utilizing power as a tool and beingfundamentally changed by its influence. This evolution is most evident during his time at the Institute, where he must move beyond the shared struggle of the mines and navigate a world of shifting alliances and cold-blooded strategy. We discuss how Darrow’s realization of the "Great Lie"—that his people’ssuffering was a manufactured necessity for the luxury of others—serves as a catalyst for his journey and a mirror for modern conversations about historical transparency. We also consider why stories about reclaiming history andchallenging the architecture of power are often among the first to face censorship. The discussion questions whether the harsh environment of the Institute is an essential reflection of a cruel regime or a distraction from the broader message of justice. By examining the "Culling" and the brutal trials of House Mars, we look at how the story forces readers to confront the cost of liberation. Finally, we reflect on how Darrow’s journey from a closed information system to an open one emphasizes the importance of intellectual freedom and the dangers of curated truths. Our next episode will focus on Moloka'i by Alan Brennert.

    20 min

  6. Apr 16

    Episode 12: The Bell Jar

    In this episode of Booked and Banned, we examine anovel that has navigated decades of scrutiny and acclaim with remarkable staying power: Sylvia Plath’s seminal work, The Bell Jar. Our guest, Amanda Golden, an Associate Professor ofEnglish at the New York Institute of Technology and a research affiliate at Smith College, shares her expertise on Plath’s only published novel. We discuss its unique place in Plath’s legacy, its history with censorship, and why its portrayal of the "internal world" remains so striking. Key Discussion Points A Gateway to Poetry: Amanda discusses how The Bell Jar serves as an entry point for many readers who find Plath’s poetry intimidating. The novel captures an ambitious, critical voice that resonates with the anxieties of student life and the search for identity. The Metaphor of the Bell Jar: We look into the dual nature of the bell jar. While it symbolizes Esther’s isolation and "staleair," Amanda provides historical context on how these jars were used at Smith College for botany—meant to help plants thrive, yet effectively trapping the protagonist in a stifling environment. Modern Catastrophizing and the Fig Tree: We connect Esther’s paralysis over the "fig tree" of life choices to thepressures faced by modern college students. The anxiety of selecting a single path and the fear of closing off possibilities is as prevalent now as it was in the 1950s. The Censorship Debate: The conversation addresses why the book continues to be challenged. While critics often cite descriptions of depression and attempted suicide, and the rejection of traditional family roles, we also highlight the novel’s role as a form of advocacy for better mental health treatment. Constructing Art vs. Transcribing Life: Amanda emphasizes that The Bell Jar is a deliberate work of fiction rather thana literal diary. We discuss the "Confessional" label often applied to Plath and how her reading habits and intellectual labor shaped the narrative arc of the book. The "Retreaded" Ending: We analyze the mechanical metaphor of Esther being "patched and retreaded" like a tire. Amanda explains the 1950s technology behind tire retreading and what that says about Esther’s recovery—she is functional and "approved for the road," yet remains realistically cautious about her future. Next Episode: Our next episode features a discussion on the science fiction/fantasy novel Red Rising by Pierce Brown.

    33 min

  7. Apr 5

    Episode 11: Beloved

    A Note to Our Listeners: Before we begin, we experienced some technical difficulties during this recording. While the audio remains clear throughout the entire episode, the video feed occasionally cuts to black. We appreciate your patience with these hiccups. In this episode of Booked and Banned, we step into 124Bluestone Road to explore Toni Morrison’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece, Beloved. Joining the show is Gal, a dedicated reader and friend of the podcast, to discuss why this haunting narrative remains one of the most vital—and most challenged—works in the American literary canon. From a chance encounter at a table with Toni Morrisonherself to a deep exploration of "rememory," Gal shares her journey with a book that reshapes our understanding of history, trauma, and the fierce complexity of maternal love. We move past the surface-level reasons for its censorship to discuss the "core horror" of the story: the reality of enslavement and the profound resilience required to survive its legacy. A Seat at the Table: Gal shares the vivid memory of a10-day solo trip to New York in 1995 where she was so captivated by Beloved that she read it constantly. The experience culminated in a "heart-racing" moment at the Harvard Club when she found the only empty chair in the room was at a table with Toni Morrison and Cornel West. The Weight of "Thick" Love: Now a mother of 22 years, Gal reflects on Paul D’s reaction to Sethe’s "frightening" devotion. The discussion explores "othermothering" through Baby Suggs’s physical care of Sethe, the complicated help from the"whitegirl" Amy Denver, and the final communal rescue by the local women. The Language of the Soul: We examine Morrison’s symphonic prose, focusing on the passages where punctuation disappears and voices—Sethe, Beloved, and Denver—become a "concerto" of entanglement. Gal describes the visceral experience of listening to Morrison narrate these characters herself, noting how the author channels a unique vocal identity for each. Beyond the Ghost Story: While the book utilizessupernatural elements, the discussion centers on how the " horror" is actually the historical reality of enslavement and brutality. Gal argues that the haunting of 124 Bluestone Road is a necessary metaphor for navigating generational trauma that a standard textbook cannot capture. The Courage of Reading: A final reflection on "rememory" as a tool for healing, both personally and nationally. Gal discusses how reading banned literature is a test of empathy and a courageous act that counters the erasure of difficult histories, allowing us to carry our ancestors' stories forward. Join us for our next conversation as we shift our focus tothe mid-century struggle for identity and mental health in Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar.

    26 min

  8. Apr 2 ·  Bonus

    Booked and Banned Bonus

    In this bonus clip from a future episode, I explore thevital role of discomfort in literature. In a climate where many attempt to sanitize the reading experience to protect certain perspectives, we must remember that the true power of a story often lies in its ability to challenge us. When we avoid narratives that make us uneasy, we lose the opportunity totruly see the world through a different lens—and to understand ourselves more clearly. New episodes of Booked and Banned are released regularly.Follow the show so you never miss a conversation about the books that some would rather you didn't read. #BookedAndBanned #Literature

    1 min
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About

Welcome to Booked and Banned, the podcast about the power of controversial fiction. Every episode, we dive into a work of fiction that has been banned or challenged in schools, libraries, or communities around the world. We examine the reasons behind attempts to silence these stories and have a candid discussion about the literature itself. If you are a curious reader who wants to engage with books that challenge and provoke, hit Follow and join the resistance.

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