Discussing the controversy over the use of the book "Working" by author Studs Terkel in a senior vocational class. Interviews with Kay Nichols, teacher, and two high school classes, as well as Bob Burns and Jim Richardson. The students talk of how the "bad" language in the book is heard from their peers on a daily basis and they don't find it offensive. [recorded in Girard, Pennsylvania]

Terkel wraps up his discussion with Frank Norman. Norman gives his opinion on present conditions in prisons and orphanages. He opens up about his relationship with his daughter and a family he has never met.

Sandra Cisneros recounts the creation of her works from her new release "Woman Hollering Creek and Other Stories" as well as "House on Mango Street". The following have been removed due to copyright restrictions: "Eleven", "Mexican Movies", "Eyes of Zapata", "Bien Pretty" and "One Holy Night". From "House on Mango Street" she reads "A Smart Cookie", "Hips", "My Name", and "Mi Tocayo," "Those Who Don't."

Studs Terkel discusses the changing role of feminism, women and rights with author, Signe Hammer, also a teacher of a Women's School in New York that caters to women aged 24 through 78 that are seeking information on new ideas of identity. Signe Hammer interviewed three generations of women to explore the importance of supporting womanhood and how Mothers must have a strong sense of self in order to see their Daughters as also having value.

Shel Silverstein discusses his books and children's literature, and art. Shel Silverstein discusses his contemporaries, art, and life experiences.

Shel Silverstein discusses his books "Lafcadio: The Lion Who Shot Back" and "Uncle Shelby's ABZ Book".. Shel Silverstein discusses his books, children's literature, and cartoonists.

The children of Rosenblatt's book, "The Children of War" were either victims themselves or they lost a relative to the war. Elizabeth, a young girl from Ireland, said she hadn't lost her faith in God but she lost her faith in man. Hawda, a Lebanese girl, was in the hospital because shrapnel had slit her stomach open. When asked, Hawda told Rosenblatt that all people are good. What happened she said was God's will and God never wants people to kill.

Studs interview with Roddy Doyle, Irish writer, and author of "Paddy Clark Ha Ha Ha." Doyle reads several times from the book. Studs also reads a few lines from the book. Doyle describes the book set in the Republic of Ireland in the 1960's that portrays the life of a small boy. He discusses the characters and themes of the book that relate to real-life. Doyle speaks about his own childhood that is not reflected in the book. Studs notes that the musical comedy-drama film "Commitments" is based off Doyle's book.

Studs discusses the book, "Our Kindly Parent--The State," and interviewing the author Patrick Murphy. They discuss the inadequate juvenile justice and reform system extensively. [includes an excerpt from interview with Lisa Richette, author of "Throw away children" 1925149-3-1 and -3-2].

Interviewing Newton Minow, Chicago lawyer and chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. He discusses broadcasting as a public service and spends a great deal of time on the history of commercials and how they changed over time.

In schools, reading, writing and speech are all on the decline because there are too many visual images from the TV, according to Neil Postman’s book, “Teaching as a Conserving Activity”. Postman criticized “Sesame Street” for its instantaneity. There are no short cuts in teaching, said Postman. He believed the worst thing a teacher could do was to make teaching entertaining for their students.

Discussing the book "Boston Boy," with author Nat Hentoff.

Part 2 of a series sponsored by the national conference of Christians and Jews. Includes "Rearing the Child of Good Will" and "The Child and the Changing World." Mrs. Bailey Bishop and Ms. Neisser discuss the importance of an open mind and a accepting environment in education and at home, and how this helps the children to accept change as it happens.

Discussing the book "The Broken Cord" (published by Harper & Row) with the author Michael Dorris.

An interview with Maria Kuncewicz about her book of fiction, "Don Quixote and the Nannies" and how this book reflects her travels to Spain and her personal observations, memories, and experiences. The story reflects the freedom and beauty that people want today post WWII. Kuncewicz tells her experience as a child with nannies and a particular event that helped inspire her writing. She speaks about authority and author, Miquel de Cervantes. Kuncewicz also talks about the people of Spain and how they reflect different Don Quixote characters.