Discussing the concept of DISTAR (Direct Instructional System for Teaching and Remediation) program, the use of phonics to teach children to read, and interviewing Joe Rosen, Betsy Clayton, and Jim First.

Jean Ritchie discusses her life, music, experiences, and career. She also discusses folk music. Includes songs performed by Jean Ritchie including "Shady Grove", "None But One", "Sweet Sound in the Wind", "Riddle Song" (sung with Oscar Brand), "See That Rainbow Shine", "Black Waters" (sung with Janis Ian), "Now is the Love of the Day", "Little Lonesome Dove", "Barbry Allen", "Brightest and Best", and "Now Is The Cool of the Day".

James and Ann Harper join Studs Terkel to discuss their personal stories and the work of their social center called Save the Alcoholic, located in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago. James discusses his struggle with alcoholism and how his experiences influence the mission of Save the Alcoholic. Ann says its often hard to work with “Skid row alcoholics,” but ultimately, they both believe it’s important to help those who are alienated by society, despite their frustrations.